ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD89.40

D89.40

Billable

Mast cell activation, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D89.40 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of mast cell activation, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) is characterized by the inappropriate activation of mast cells, leading to the release of mediators such as histamine, cytokines, and other inflammatory substances. This condition can result in a variety of symptoms affecting multiple organ systems, including the skin, gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, and cardiovascular system. Patients may present with symptoms such as flushing, urticaria, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and anaphylaxis. The unspecified nature of this code indicates that the specific triggers or underlying causes of mast cell activation have not been clearly identified. The condition can be challenging to diagnose due to its overlap with other allergic and non-allergic disorders, and it often requires a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and sometimes laboratory testing to rule out other conditions. Management typically involves the use of antihistamines, mast cell stabilizers, and avoidance of known triggers. Given the complexity of symptoms and potential for severe reactions, accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of symptoms that can mimic other conditions
  • Need for comprehensive patient history and documentation
  • Potential for co-existing conditions that complicate diagnosis
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on individual patient responses

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of symptoms and triggers
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers
  • Lack of clear differentiation from other allergic conditions
  • Failure to document treatment plans and responses

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Allergy and Immunology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including symptom triggers and response to treatments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with recurrent anaphylaxis or unexplained allergic symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Ensure thorough documentation of all symptoms and any diagnostic tests performed.

Hematology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of any hematologic manifestations or complications related to mast cell activation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with mast cell activation presenting with hematologic abnormalities such as eosinophilia.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of co-existing hematologic disorders that may influence treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D89.40 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, D89
  • 40 should be used when the specific cause of mast cell activation is not known
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that other potential causes have been ruled out

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D89.40 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

95004CPT Code

Allergy skin testing

Clinical Scenario

Used to identify specific allergens in patients with suspected mast cell activation.

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific allergens tested and patient reactions.

Specialty Considerations

Allergy specialists should ensure comprehensive testing to rule out other conditions.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of mast cell activation disorders, improving the ability to capture the complexity of these conditions. D89.40 provides a way to code for unspecified cases, which may have been underrepresented in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of mast cell activation disorders, improving the ability to capture the complexity of these conditions. D89.40 provides a way to code for unspecified cases, which may have been underrepresented in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Foundation

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Mast Cell Activation Syndrome Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of mast cell activation?

Common symptoms include flushing, hives, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and respiratory distress. Symptoms can vary widely among individuals.

How is mast cell activation diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a detailed patient history, physical examination, and laboratory tests such as serum tryptase levels to assess mast cell activity.