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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD46.1

D46.1

Billable

Refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 D46.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Refractory anemia with ring sideroblasts (RARS) is a subtype of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis leading to anemia and the presence of ring sideroblasts in the bone marrow. Ring sideroblasts are erythroid precursors that exhibit abnormal iron accumulation, which can be identified through a Prussian blue stain. Patients typically present with symptoms of anemia, such as fatigue, pallor, and weakness. The condition is classified under neoplasms of uncertain behavior, as it has the potential to progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in some cases. The diagnosis is made through a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, and bone marrow biopsy. Surveillance is crucial for monitoring disease progression and managing complications. Treatment options may include supportive care, such as blood transfusions and erythropoiesis-stimulating agents, as well as potential therapies targeting the underlying dysplastic process. The prognosis varies, and careful monitoring is essential to address any signs of transformation to more aggressive forms of hematologic malignancy.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other types of anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes.
  • Need for precise documentation of laboratory findings, particularly ring sideroblasts.
  • Potential for progression to acute myeloid leukemia requiring ongoing surveillance.
  • Variability in clinical presentation and treatment response among patients.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of laboratory results confirming ring sideroblasts.
  • Failure to document the patient's clinical symptoms and treatment response.
  • Misclassification of the condition as a different type of anemia.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation indicating ongoing surveillance.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Hematology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed reports of blood tests, bone marrow biopsy results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of patients presenting with unexplained anemia and abnormal blood counts.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate reporting of ring sideroblasts and any treatment-related complications.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive documentation of disease progression, treatment regimens, and response to therapy.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of patients with MDS who may progress to acute leukemia.

Billing Considerations

Monitor for signs of transformation and document any changes in treatment strategy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D46.1 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for myelodysplastic syndromes, ensuring accurate documentation of laboratory findings and clinical symptoms
  • Include any relevant history of treatment and follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D46.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

85027CPT Code

Complete blood count (CBC) with differential

Clinical Scenario

Used to monitor blood counts in patients with RARS.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the CBC and any abnormal findings.

Specialty Considerations

Hematology specialists should ensure accurate interpretation of results.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of myelodysplastic syndromes, including RARS, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of myelodysplastic syndromes, including RARS, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of myelodysplastic syndromes, including RARS, improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment tracking.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Society of Hematology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Society of Hematology

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key diagnostic criteria for D46.1?

The key diagnostic criteria for D46.1 include the presence of anemia, identification of ring sideroblasts in the bone marrow, and exclusion of other causes of anemia. Regular monitoring for disease progression is also essential.