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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN18.32

N18.32

Billable

Chronic kidney disease, stage 3b

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

Code Description

ICD-10 N18.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease, stage 3b.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) stage 3b is characterized by a moderate decrease in kidney function, with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) ranging from 30 to 44 mL/min/1.73 m². This stage indicates a significant decline in renal function, which can lead to complications such as hypertension, anemia, and bone mineral disorders. Patients may experience symptoms such as fatigue, fluid retention, and changes in urination patterns. Management typically involves controlling underlying conditions like diabetes and hypertension, dietary modifications, and regular monitoring of kidney function. Patients in this stage are at increased risk for progression to end-stage renal disease (ESRD), necessitating discussions about potential renal replacement therapies, including dialysis and transplantation. Early intervention and lifestyle changes can help slow the progression of CKD and improve quality of life.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for accurate eGFR calculation and documentation
  • Differentiation from acute kidney injury (AKI)
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting kidney function
  • Variability in clinical presentation and management strategies

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of eGFR
  • Failure to document co-morbid conditions
  • Misclassification of CKD stage
  • Lack of evidence for treatment plans

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed records of kidney function tests, treatment plans, and patient education.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of CKD progression, initiation of dialysis, and preparation for kidney transplant.

Billing Considerations

Ensure comprehensive documentation of all renal function tests and patient compliance with treatment.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Regular monitoring of kidney function, management of co-morbidities, and patient lifestyle modifications.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine screening for CKD in at-risk populations and management of hypertension and diabetes.

Billing Considerations

Document patient education on CKD and its implications for overall health.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N18.32 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding CKD, including the requirement to document the stage of CKD and any associated complications
  • Ensure that the eGFR is calculated and documented appropriately to support the coding of N18

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N18.32 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

90935CPT Code

Hemodialysis

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient with CKD stage 3b progresses to require dialysis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the need for dialysis initiation and patient consent.

Specialty Considerations

Nephrology specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's renal status.

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 chronic conditions.

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 chronic conditions.

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 chronic conditions.

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 CKD stage 3b?

CKD stage 3b indicates a moderate decrease in kidney function, which requires careful management to prevent progression to end-stage renal disease and associated complications.