Hepatic fibrosis, early fibrosis
ICD-10 K74.01 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hepatic fibrosis, early fibrosis.
Hepatic fibrosis, early fibrosis, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fibrous connective tissue in the liver, often as a response to chronic liver injury. This condition can arise from various etiologies, including chronic viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and autoimmune liver diseases. Clinically, patients may be asymptomatic in the early stages, but as fibrosis progresses, they may experience symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal discomfort. The liver anatomy involved includes hepatocytes, portal tracts, and the hepatic vasculature, where the fibrotic changes primarily occur in the portal areas and can lead to portal hypertension if left untreated. Disease progression can vary significantly among individuals, influenced by the underlying cause and the presence of co-morbidities. Diagnostic considerations include liver function tests, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or MRI), and liver biopsy, which can confirm the presence and extent of fibrosis. Non-invasive methods like elastography are also increasingly used to assess liver stiffness as a surrogate marker for fibrosis.
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
K74.01 specifically covers early hepatic fibrosis, which can result from chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis B and C, alcoholic liver disease, and NAFLD. It is essential to document the underlying cause of liver injury to support the diagnosis.
K74.01 should be used when the patient is diagnosed with early hepatic fibrosis without significant progression to advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis. If there is evidence of more severe fibrosis, codes K74.02 or K74.03 should be considered.
Documentation should include a thorough clinical history, results from liver function tests, imaging studies, and, if applicable, liver biopsy results indicating the presence of early fibrosis. Regular monitoring and follow-up notes are also essential.
