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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD57.439

D57.439

Billable

Sickle-cell thalassemia beta zero with crisis, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D57.439 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sickle-cell thalassemia beta zero with crisis, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Sickle-cell thalassemia beta zero is a complex hemoglobinopathy resulting from the combination of sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia. This condition is characterized by the presence of both sickle-shaped red blood cells and reduced production of beta-globin chains, leading to a mixed phenotype of symptoms. Patients often experience episodes of vaso-occlusive crises, which can result in severe pain, organ damage, and increased risk of infections. The severity of symptoms can vary widely depending on the genetic makeup and environmental factors. In this unspecified crisis state, the patient may present with acute pain episodes, anemia, and other complications related to hemolytic anemia, such as jaundice and splenomegaly. Management typically involves pain control, hydration, and sometimes blood transfusions. Genetic counseling is also recommended for affected individuals and their families due to the hereditary nature of the disease.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Combination of two genetic disorders (sickle cell disease and beta-thalassemia)
  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity
  • Need for precise documentation of crisis episodes
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other hemolytic anemias

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of crisis episodes
  • Failure to specify the type of crisis
  • Misclassification of related hemolytic anemias
  • Lack of genetic testing documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Hematology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on hemoglobin levels, crisis management, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of pain crises, blood transfusions, and monitoring for complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the complexity of the condition and any genetic testing performed.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Family history, genetic testing results, and counseling notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families, prenatal testing discussions.

Billing Considerations

Accurate documentation of genetic factors and inheritance patterns is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D57.439 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding hemolytic anemias and ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis of sickle
  • cell thalassemia beta zero with crisis
  • Include details about the nature of the crisis and any associated complications

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D57.439 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

36430CPT Code

Transfusion, blood or blood components

Clinical Scenario

Used during hospitalization for severe anemia or crisis management.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for transfusion and patient response.

Specialty Considerations

Hematology specialists should ensure transfusion protocols are followed.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of complex conditions like sickle-cell thalassemia beta zero, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of complex conditions like sickle-cell thalassemia beta zero, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of complex conditions like sickle-cell thalassemia beta zero, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of care.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Sickle Cell Disease Association of America

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Sickle Cell Disease Association of America

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the beta zero designation?

The beta zero designation indicates that there is a complete absence of beta-globin chain production, leading to more severe symptoms compared to other forms of thalassemia.