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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK63.8211

K63.8211

Billable

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, hydrogen-subtype

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 K63.8211 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth, hydrogen-subtype.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the number of bacteria in the small intestine, particularly those that are typically found in the colon. The hydrogen-subtype of SIBO is specifically associated with the production of hydrogen gas as a byproduct of bacterial fermentation. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and malabsorption, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies. The small intestine anatomy is crucial in understanding SIBO, as it is normally a relatively sterile environment, and the presence of excessive bacteria can disrupt normal digestive processes. Disease progression can vary, with some patients experiencing recurrent episodes, while others may develop chronic symptoms. Diagnostic considerations include breath tests that measure hydrogen and methane levels after carbohydrate ingestion, as well as small bowel aspirate and culture, although the latter is more invasive. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective management and treatment, which may involve dietary modifications, antibiotics, and probiotics.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires specific tests to confirm diagnosis
  • Treatment complexity: Involves a multidisciplinary approach including dietary management and pharmacotherapy
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical history and test results are necessary for accurate coding
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other gastrointestinal disorders

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misuse of related codes or unspecified codes
  • Documentation gaps: Lack of thorough clinical notes or test results
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient evidence of medical necessity

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Gastroenterology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of K63.8211 lies in its potential to affect patient quality of life due to gastrointestinal symptoms and malabsorption issues. Population health impact includes the rising awareness and diagnosis of SIBO, which can lead to improved management strategies and better health outcomes. Understanding SIBO's epidemiology can help healthcare providers identify at-risk populations and implement preventive measures, ultimately reducing healthcare utilization patterns associated with chronic gastrointestinal disorders.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of K63.8211 lies in its potential to affect patient quality of life due to gastrointestinal symptoms and malabsorption issues. Population health impact includes the rising awareness and diagnosis of SIBO, which can lead to improved management strategies and better health outcomes. Understanding SIBO's epidemiology can help healthcare providers identify at-risk populations and implement preventive measures, ultimately reducing healthcare utilization patterns associated with chronic gastrointestinal disorders.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The clinical significance of K63.8211 lies in its potential to affect patient quality of life due to gastrointestinal symptoms and malabsorption issues. Population health impact includes the rising awareness and diagnosis of SIBO, which can lead to improved management strategies and better health outcomes. Understanding SIBO's epidemiology can help healthcare providers identify at-risk populations and implement preventive measures, ultimately reducing healthcare utilization patterns associated with chronic gastrointestinal disorders.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by K63.8211?

K63.8211 specifically covers small intestinal bacterial overgrowth with a hydrogen subtype, which is characterized by increased hydrogen production due to bacterial fermentation in the small intestine. It is important to differentiate this from other types of SIBO, such as methane-dominant SIBO, which may have different clinical implications.

When should K63.8211 be used instead of related codes?

K63.8211 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth with hydrogen production, as evidenced by breath testing or other diagnostic criteria. It is essential to use this code when the clinical presentation aligns with the specific characteristics of hydrogen-subtype SIBO.

What documentation supports K63.8211?

Documentation for K63.8211 should include a detailed clinical history, results from breath tests indicating hydrogen production, and any relevant imaging or laboratory studies that support the diagnosis of SIBO. Additionally, treatment plans and patient responses to therapy should be documented.