Hepatic failure, unspecified with coma
ICD-10 K72.91 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hepatic failure, unspecified with coma.
Hepatic failure, unspecified with coma, is a severe condition characterized by the liver's inability to perform its vital functions, leading to a buildup of toxins in the bloodstream and subsequent neurological impairment. The liver, a crucial organ in the digestive system, is responsible for metabolizing nutrients, detoxifying harmful substances, and producing essential proteins. In hepatic failure, the liver's functional capacity diminishes, which can result from various etiologies, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, drug-induced liver injury, or metabolic disorders. The progression of hepatic failure can be rapid, particularly in acute cases, leading to complications such as hepatic encephalopathy, which manifests as confusion, altered consciousness, and coma. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, laboratory tests (e.g., liver function tests, ammonia levels), and imaging studies to assess liver structure and function. Early recognition and intervention are critical to improving outcomes, as the condition can rapidly escalate to multi-organ failure if not managed promptly.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
K72.91 encompasses unspecified hepatic failure with coma, which may arise from acute liver failure, chronic liver disease exacerbations, or acute-on-chronic liver failure scenarios. It is crucial to document the underlying cause of liver dysfunction when available.
K72.91 should be used when a patient presents with hepatic failure accompanied by coma, and the specific cause of hepatic failure is not clearly defined. If the cause is known, more specific codes should be utilized.
Documentation must include a clear clinical assessment of hepatic failure, evidence of coma (e.g., Glasgow Coma Scale scores), and any relevant laboratory findings that support liver dysfunction, such as elevated liver enzymes and ammonia levels.
