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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN11.9

N11.9

Billable

Chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N11.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis (TIN) is a progressive kidney disease characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the renal interstitium, leading to tubular dysfunction. This condition can result from various etiologies, including prolonged exposure to nephrotoxins, autoimmune diseases, and recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs). Pyelonephritis, a type of kidney infection, can contribute to the development of TIN, particularly when it is recurrent or inadequately treated. Interstitial nephritis may also arise from drug-induced nephropathy, where certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antibiotics, cause damage to the renal interstitium. Patients may present with symptoms such as fatigue, hypertension, and changes in urine output. Hydronephrosis, which is the swelling of a kidney due to a build-up of urine, can occur if there is an obstruction in the urinary tract. Management often involves addressing the underlying cause, such as treating UTIs with appropriate antibiotics, and monitoring renal function. Chronic TIN can lead to end-stage renal disease if not managed effectively, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (e.g., drug-induced, autoimmune)
  • Need for comprehensive patient history to determine etiology
  • Differentiation from acute interstitial nephritis
  • Potential overlap with other renal codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of chronicity
  • Failure to specify underlying causes
  • Misclassification with acute conditions
  • Lack of supporting lab results or imaging studies

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including medication use, symptoms, and lab results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic kidney disease, recurrent UTIs, or those on nephrotoxic medications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the chronic nature and any contributing factors to avoid misclassification.

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Surgical history, imaging results, and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with hydronephrosis or urinary obstruction leading to renal impairment.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical interventions or procedures that may impact renal function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N11.9 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N11
  • 9 should be used when the specific cause of chronic tubulo
  • interstitial nephritis is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the chronicity is well
  • documented and that any underlying conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N11.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

76775CPT Code

Ultrasound, abdomen, complete

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate for hydronephrosis or other renal abnormalities.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for the ultrasound and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Nephrologists and urologists should ensure imaging results are included in the patient's record.

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 N11.9, improving the ability to track and manage chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis and its complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like N11.9, improving the ability to track and manage chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis and its complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic conditions like N11.9, improving the ability to track and manage chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis and its complications.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Chronic Kidney Disease: A Guide for Patients

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Chronic Kidney Disease: A Guide for Patients

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of chronic tubulo-interstitial nephritis?

Common causes include prolonged exposure to nephrotoxic drugs, autoimmune diseases, recurrent urinary tract infections, and metabolic disorders.