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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN11.1

N11.1

Billable

Chronic obstructive pyelonephritis

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N11.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic obstructive pyelonephritis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic obstructive pyelonephritis is a long-standing kidney infection characterized by inflammation of the renal pelvis and interstitial tissue, often resulting from recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or obstructive uropathy. This condition can lead to significant renal damage and is frequently associated with hydronephrosis, where urine accumulates in the kidney due to obstruction. The obstruction may be caused by anatomical abnormalities, kidney stones, or tumors. Chronic interstitial nephritis may also develop as a result of prolonged inflammation, leading to progressive renal impairment. Patients may present with symptoms such as flank pain, fever, and dysuria. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies, urinalysis, and urine cultures to identify the causative pathogens. Management often includes antibiotic therapy tailored to the specific organism, addressing any underlying obstruction, and monitoring renal function to prevent further complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic forms of pyelonephritis
  • Identifying the underlying cause of obstruction
  • Documenting recurrent UTIs and their impact on renal function
  • Managing co-existing conditions such as diabetes or hypertension

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of recurrent UTIs
  • Failure to document the cause of obstruction
  • Lack of clarity in distinguishing chronic from acute conditions
  • Insufficient evidence of antibiotic management

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of renal function, imaging studies, and laboratory results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of chronic kidney disease secondary to obstructive pyelonephritis.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of renal function tests and any interventions performed.

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes if obstruction is treated surgically, imaging results, and patient history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical intervention for kidney stones causing obstruction.

Billing Considerations

Document the type of obstruction and any procedures performed to relieve it.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N11.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N11
  • 1 should be used when there is clear documentation of chronic obstructive pyelonephritis
  • It is important to include details about the underlying cause of obstruction and any recurrent infections

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N11.1 When
  • Exclusions include acute pyelonephritis and other forms of nephritis not related to obstruction

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

76700CPT Code

Ultrasound, abdomen, complete

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate hydronephrosis in patients with suspected obstructive pyelonephritis.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for ultrasound and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Nephrology and Urology may require specific imaging protocols.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like obstructive pyelonephritis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic kidney diseases.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like obstructive pyelonephritis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic kidney diseases.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like obstructive pyelonephritis, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic kidney diseases.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of chronic obstructive pyelonephritis?

Common causes include recurrent urinary tract infections, anatomical abnormalities, kidney stones, and tumors that obstruct urine flow.

How is chronic obstructive pyelonephritis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, urinalysis, and urine cultures to identify infections.