Elevated Liver Function Icd 10

David Muir

2 min read

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09-12-2024

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Elevated liver function tests (LFTs) indicate potential problems with your liver. Understanding the underlying causes and the relevant ICD-10 codes is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This article provides a general overview; it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

What are Liver Function Tests (LFTs)?

Liver function tests are a panel of blood tests that assess the health of your liver. These tests measure the levels of various enzymes and proteins produced by the liver. Elevated levels can suggest liver damage or disease. Commonly tested enzymes and proteins include:

• Alanine aminotransferase (ALT): Primarily found in the liver. Elevated ALT suggests liver cell damage.
• Aspartate aminotransferase (AST): Found in the liver, heart, and muscles. Elevated AST can indicate damage to these organs.
• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP): Found in the liver and bones. Elevated ALP might suggest liver or bone disease.
• Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT): Primarily found in the liver. Elevated GGT often indicates liver or bile duct damage.
• Bilirubin: A byproduct of red blood cell breakdown. Elevated bilirubin can lead to jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
• Albumin: A protein produced by the liver. Low albumin levels can signify liver disease.

ICD-10 Codes Associated with Elevated Liver Function Tests

The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10) uses specific codes to classify diseases and conditions. The ICD-10 code used will depend on the cause of the elevated LFTs, not just the elevated levels themselves. Some examples include:

• K70-K77: Diseases of the liver: This broad category encompasses various liver conditions that could cause elevated LFTs, including:

  • K70: Alcoholic liver disease: This includes alcoholic fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and alcoholic cirrhosis.
  • K71: Other chronic liver disease: This can cover conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and autoimmune hepatitis.
  • K72: Cirrhosis of liver: Advanced scarring of the liver.
  • K74: Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by viruses (hepatitis A, B, C), alcohol, or autoimmune disorders.
  • K76: Other disorders of liver: This is a catch-all category for liver conditions not specified elsewhere.

• Other ICD-10 codes: Elevated LFTs can also be associated with other conditions not directly related to liver disease, such as heart failure, certain medications, and infections. These would require different ICD-10 codes depending on the underlying condition.

Important Note: The appropriate ICD-10 code is determined by a physician based on a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including patient history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be used for self-diagnosis or coding.

Seeking Medical Attention

If you have concerns about your liver health or have experienced elevated liver function tests, it is essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, determine the underlying cause of the elevated LFTs, and recommend the appropriate treatment plan. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in managing liver conditions effectively.