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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN18.1

N18.1

Billable

Chronic kidney disease, stage 1

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N18.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease, stage 1.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 1 is characterized by the presence of kidney damage, as evidenced by abnormal markers of kidney function or structure, with a glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 90 mL/min or greater. Patients in this stage may not exhibit any symptoms, and kidney function is typically preserved. However, the identification of CKD stage 1 is crucial as it serves as a warning sign for potential progression to more severe stages of kidney disease. Risk factors for CKD include diabetes, hypertension, and a family history of kidney disease. Management focuses on controlling underlying conditions, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring of kidney function. Early intervention can slow the progression of CKD and reduce the risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease. Patients may require education on dietary restrictions, fluid intake, and the importance of regular follow-up appointments to monitor kidney health. It is essential for healthcare providers to document any comorbidities and risk factors accurately to ensure appropriate coding and management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between stages of CKD
  • Understanding the significance of GFR levels
  • Documenting comorbid conditions accurately
  • Recognizing the need for ongoing monitoring and management

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of GFR
  • Failure to document comorbid conditions
  • Misclassification of CKD stage
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed documentation of kidney function tests, comorbidities, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with diabetes or hypertension presenting for routine kidney function monitoring.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all lab results are included in the medical record to support the diagnosis.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, including risk factors and lifestyle modifications.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine check-ups for patients with known risk factors for CKD.

Billing Considerations

Documenting patient education on CKD management and follow-up plans.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N18.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N18
  • 1 should be used when there is evidence of kidney damage with a GFR of 90 or greater
  • It is important to document the presence of any comorbidities that may contribute to CKD

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N18.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

80048CPT Code

Basic metabolic panel

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess kidney function in patients with CKD stage 1.

Documentation Requirements

Document lab results and any relevant patient history.

Specialty Considerations

Nephrology may require additional tests for comprehensive evaluation.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CKD stages, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of kidney disease.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CKD stages, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of kidney disease.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of CKD stages, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of kidney disease.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO)

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding CKD stage 1?

Coding CKD stage 1 is important for tracking the progression of kidney disease and ensuring appropriate management of risk factors to prevent further decline in kidney function.