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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD50.0

D50.0

Billable

Iron deficiency anemia secondary to blood loss (chronic)

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D50.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia secondary to blood loss (chronic).

Key Diagnostic Point:

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a common type of anemia that occurs when the body lacks sufficient iron to produce hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. D50.0 specifically refers to IDA that is secondary to chronic blood loss, which can occur due to various conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding, heavy menstrual periods, or chronic hemolysis. Chronic blood loss leads to a gradual depletion of iron stores, resulting in decreased hemoglobin levels and subsequent anemia. Patients may present with symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pallor, and shortness of breath. Diagnosis typically involves a complete blood count (CBC), serum ferritin levels, and possibly additional tests to identify the source of blood loss. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause of the blood loss, along with iron supplementation to replenish iron stores and improve hemoglobin levels. Monitoring and follow-up are essential to ensure effective management and to prevent recurrence.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic blood loss
  • Identifying underlying causes of blood loss
  • Understanding the relationship between iron deficiency and anemia
  • Documenting the severity and duration of symptoms

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the source of blood loss
  • Failure to document the severity of anemia
  • Lack of follow-up notes on treatment response
  • Misclassification of anemia type

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Hematology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed lab results, history of blood loss, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic gastrointestinal bleeding or heavy menstrual cycles.

Billing Considerations

Ensure comprehensive documentation of iron studies and response to treatment.

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Endoscopy reports, biopsy results, and history of gastrointestinal symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with anemia and gastrointestinal complaints.

Billing Considerations

Document any findings that may indicate a source of chronic blood loss.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D50.0 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, D50
  • 0 should be used when iron deficiency anemia is specifically due to chronic blood loss
  • Coders must ensure that the underlying cause of the blood loss is documented and coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D50.0 When
  • Exclusion criteria include anemia due to other deficiencies or conditions not related to blood loss

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

85025CPT Code

Complete blood count (CBC)

Clinical Scenario

Used to diagnose anemia and monitor treatment response.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the CBC and any relevant clinical findings.

Specialty Considerations

Hematology specialists should ensure that all lab results are included in the patient's record.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of anemia types, including the differentiation of iron deficiency anemia due to chronic blood loss. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of anemia types, including the differentiation of iron deficiency anemia due to chronic blood loss. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of anemia types, including the differentiation of iron deficiency anemia due to chronic blood loss. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of D50.0?

D50.0 is primarily caused by chronic blood loss, which can result from various conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding or heavy menstrual periods.

How is D50.0 diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a complete blood count (CBC), serum ferritin levels, and clinical evaluation to identify the source of blood loss.

What treatments are available for D50.0?

Treatment includes addressing the underlying cause of blood loss and iron supplementation to restore iron levels and improve hemoglobin.