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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK71.51

K71.51

Billable

Toxic liver disease with chronic active hepatitis with ascites

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K71.51 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of toxic liver disease with chronic active hepatitis with ascites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

K71.51 refers to toxic liver disease characterized by chronic active hepatitis accompanied by ascites. This condition arises from exposure to hepatotoxic substances, leading to inflammation and damage to liver cells. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, and fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity (ascites). The liver, a vital organ in the digestive system, plays a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and bile production. Chronic active hepatitis indicates ongoing inflammation, which can progress to fibrosis and cirrhosis if left untreated. Diagnostic considerations include liver function tests, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or CT scans), and liver biopsy to assess the extent of damage and rule out other liver diseases. The management of K71.51 often involves addressing the underlying cause of toxicity, monitoring liver function, and managing complications such as ascites through diuretics or paracentesis. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor disease progression and adjust treatment as necessary.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires comprehensive evaluation of liver function and potential toxic exposures.
  • Treatment complexity: Involves multidisciplinary management including hepatology, nutrition, and possibly transplant services.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical documentation is necessary to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other liver diseases and conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of the severity of liver disease or failure to document ascites.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding the patient's history of toxic exposure or treatment response.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of supporting documentation for the diagnosis and treatment.

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

Hepatology

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

K71.51 has significant clinical implications, as toxic liver disease can lead to severe complications, including liver failure and increased healthcare utilization. The condition affects a diverse population, often linked to substance abuse or occupational hazards. Quality measures focus on early detection and management to prevent progression to cirrhosis or liver cancer, highlighting the importance of public health initiatives aimed at reducing exposure to hepatotoxins.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

K71.51 has significant clinical implications, as toxic liver disease can lead to severe complications, including liver failure and increased healthcare utilization. The condition affects a diverse population, often linked to substance abuse or occupational hazards. Quality measures focus on early detection and management to prevent progression to cirrhosis or liver cancer, highlighting the importance of public health initiatives aimed at reducing exposure to hepatotoxins.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of care provided, especially if managing complications like ascites. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation of the toxic exposure or lack of clarity in the diagnosis. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical notes are thorough and that the rationale for treatment is clearly articulated, as well as confirming that the coding aligns with the documentation provided.

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 K71.51?

K71.51 covers toxic liver disease resulting from exposure to harmful substances leading to chronic active hepatitis and the presence of ascites. This includes conditions related to alcohol, medications, and environmental toxins.

When should K71.51 be used instead of related codes?

K71.51 should be used when there is clear documentation of chronic active hepatitis with ascites due to toxic liver disease. It is essential to differentiate it from other liver conditions that may not involve ascites or chronic inflammation.

What documentation supports K71.51?

Documentation should include a detailed patient history of toxic exposure, laboratory results indicating liver dysfunction, imaging studies showing ascites, and clinical assessments that confirm chronic active hepatitis.