Other and unspecified cirrhosis of liver
ICD-10 K74.6 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of other and unspecified cirrhosis of liver.
K74.6 refers to 'Other and unspecified cirrhosis of liver,' a condition characterized by the progressive replacement of healthy liver tissue with scar tissue (fibrosis), leading to impaired liver function. The liver, a vital organ in the digestive system, plays a crucial role in metabolism, detoxification, and the production of essential proteins. Cirrhosis can result from various etiologies, including chronic viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, and metabolic disorders. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, ascites, and portal hypertension. Disease progression can lead to complications like liver failure and hepatocellular carcinoma. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory tests (e.g., liver function tests, viral serologies), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT, MRI), and sometimes liver biopsy. The absence of a specific underlying cause or the inability to classify the cirrhosis further necessitates the use of K74.6, making it essential for coders to accurately capture the complexity of the patient's condition.
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
K74.6 encompasses cirrhosis not classified elsewhere, including cases where the underlying cause is unknown or not specified. This may include idiopathic cirrhosis or cirrhosis resulting from multiple factors.
K74.6 should be used when cirrhosis is present without a clear etiology or when the specific type of cirrhosis cannot be determined. Coders should ensure that all other specific codes have been considered and ruled out.
Documentation must include a comprehensive assessment of the patient's liver function, any relevant imaging studies, laboratory results, and a clear statement from the physician regarding the diagnosis of cirrhosis and its unspecified nature.
