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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesE21.1

E21.1

Billable

Secondary hyperparathyroidism, not elsewhere classified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 E21.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of secondary hyperparathyroidism, not elsewhere classified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Secondary hyperparathyroidism is a condition characterized by an increase in parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels due to a chronic underlying condition, most commonly chronic kidney disease (CKD). In CKD, the kidneys are unable to adequately excrete phosphate, leading to hyperphosphatemia, which in turn stimulates the parathyroid glands to produce more PTH in an attempt to maintain calcium homeostasis. This compensatory mechanism can result in parathyroid gland hyperplasia and elevated serum PTH levels. Unlike primary hyperparathyroidism, where the parathyroid glands are autonomously overactive, secondary hyperparathyroidism is a response to external stimuli, such as low serum calcium or high phosphate levels. The condition can lead to bone disease, cardiovascular complications, and other systemic effects if not managed appropriately. Diagnosis typically involves serum calcium, phosphate, and PTH level assessments, alongside imaging studies to evaluate bone health. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause, often involving dietary phosphate restriction, phosphate binders, and vitamin D analogs to help control PTH levels.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between primary and secondary hyperparathyroidism
  • Understanding the underlying causes such as chronic kidney disease
  • Interpreting laboratory results accurately
  • Recognizing associated conditions and complications

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of underlying conditions
  • Failure to document laboratory results supporting the diagnosis
  • Misclassification of primary vs. secondary hyperparathyroidism
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans and follow-up

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed lab results, treatment plans, and patient history related to calcium and phosphate metabolism.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic kidney disease presenting with elevated PTH levels.

Billing Considerations

Ensure comprehensive documentation of all endocrine evaluations and treatments.

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of kidney function tests, phosphate levels, and management strategies for CKD.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing dialysis with associated bone mineral disorders.

Billing Considerations

Document the relationship between kidney function and parathyroid hormone levels.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use E21.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, E21
  • 1 should be used when secondary hyperparathyroidism is diagnosed without a more specific classification
  • It is essential to document the underlying cause, such as chronic kidney disease, to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use E21.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

80048CPT Code

Comprehensive metabolic panel

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess electrolyte levels including calcium and phosphate.

Documentation Requirements

Document all lab results and their relevance to the diagnosis.

Specialty Considerations

Endocrinologists should ensure lab results are interpreted in the context of endocrine function.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of secondary hyperparathyroidism, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the importance of documenting underlying conditions and their impact on patient health.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of secondary hyperparathyroidism, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the importance of documenting underlying conditions and their impact on patient health.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the importance of documenting underlying conditions and their impact on patient health.

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 secondary hyperparathyroidism?

The primary cause is usually chronic kidney disease, which leads to imbalances in calcium and phosphate metabolism.

How can secondary hyperparathyroidism be managed?

Management typically involves treating the underlying kidney disease, dietary phosphate restriction, and medications to control PTH levels.