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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ44.6

Q44.6

Billable

Cystic disease of liver

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 Q44.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cystic disease of liver.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Cystic disease of the liver encompasses a variety of congenital malformations characterized by the presence of cysts within the liver tissue. These cysts can be solitary or multiple and may vary in size. Congenital cystic liver diseases can arise from developmental anomalies during embryogenesis, leading to conditions such as polycystic liver disease, choledochal cysts, and hepatic cysts. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, hepatomegaly, and complications such as infection or rupture of cysts. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI, and management may involve monitoring, surgical intervention, or other therapeutic measures depending on the severity and symptoms presented. Understanding the underlying genetic factors is crucial, as some cystic liver diseases are associated with syndromic conditions, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach to care.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and severity of cystic diseases.
  • Need for imaging studies to confirm diagnosis.
  • Potential for associated syndromic conditions requiring additional codes.
  • Differentiation from acquired liver cysts.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of imaging studies.
  • Failure to document associated syndromic conditions.
  • Misclassification of cystic liver disease as acquired.
  • Lack of clarity in the management plan.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Pediatric documentation should include growth parameters, developmental milestones, and specific symptoms related to liver function.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Common scenarios include a newborn presenting with abdominal distension or jaundice, requiring imaging to assess for cystic liver disease.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of age-related factors in diagnosis and management, as well as the potential for long-term follow-up.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic documentation should include family history, genetic testing results, and any syndromic associations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Scenarios may involve genetic counseling for families with a history of congenital liver diseases or syndromes.

Billing Considerations

Understanding the genetic basis of cystic liver diseases is essential for accurate coding and management.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q44.6 When
  • Follow official coding guidelines for congenital conditions, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, associated symptoms, and any interventions performed
  • Use additional codes for associated conditions as necessary

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q44.6 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

74176CPT Code

Ultrasound, abdomen, complete

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate cystic liver disease in pediatric patients.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for ultrasound and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric specialists should ensure age-appropriate 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 congenital conditions, including cystic diseases of the liver, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, including cystic diseases of the liver, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 symptoms of cystic disease of the liver in children?

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, hepatomegaly, jaundice, and in some cases, complications such as infection or rupture of cysts. Regular monitoring and imaging may be necessary to assess the condition.