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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesQ44.71

Q44.71

Billable

Alagille syndrome

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

Code Description

ICD-10 Q44.71 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of alagille syndrome.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Alagille syndrome is a genetic disorder characterized by a range of congenital malformations, particularly affecting the liver, heart, and skeletal system. It is caused by mutations in the JAG1 or NOTCH2 genes, leading to a spectrum of clinical manifestations. One of the hallmark features of Alagille syndrome is the presence of bile duct paucity, which can result in cholestasis and liver dysfunction. Patients may also exhibit cardiac defects, such as pulmonary stenosis or ventricular septal defects, and skeletal anomalies, including butterfly vertebrae. In addition to these primary features, individuals with Alagille syndrome may present with gastrointestinal malformations, such as esophageal atresia, Hirschsprung disease, and imperforate anus, which complicate their clinical management. The diagnosis is often made based on clinical criteria, including the presence of characteristic features and genetic testing. Early recognition and multidisciplinary management are crucial for optimizing outcomes in affected individuals.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in clinical presentation and severity of symptoms
  • Need for genetic testing and interpretation of results
  • Potential for multiple congenital anomalies requiring different codes
  • Documentation of associated conditions and their management

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated congenital anomalies
  • Failure to include genetic testing results in the medical record
  • Misclassification of symptoms as unrelated conditions
  • Lack of clarity in the relationship between Alagille syndrome and other congenital malformations

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed documentation of growth parameters, developmental milestones, and specific congenital anomalies present in the patient.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of a newborn with Alagille syndrome presenting with jaundice and feeding difficulties due to esophageal atresia.

Billing Considerations

Pediatric coders must ensure that all congenital anomalies are documented and coded accurately, as they may impact treatment and prognosis.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history, and detailed clinical findings related to the genetic condition.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families with a history of Alagille syndrome, including discussions about recurrence risks and management options.

Billing Considerations

Genetic coders should focus on the implications of genetic findings and ensure that all relevant codes are linked to the genetic diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use Q44.71 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for congenital conditions, ensuring accurate documentation of all associated anomalies and their clinical significance
  • Use additional codes as necessary to capture the full clinical picture

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use Q44.71 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

44180CPT Code

Repair of esophageal atresia

Clinical Scenario

Used in conjunction with Q44.71 when a patient with Alagille syndrome undergoes surgical repair of esophageal atresia.

Documentation Requirements

Surgical notes detailing the procedure and indication for surgery.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric surgeons should ensure that the diagnosis of Alagille syndrome is clearly documented to support the surgical intervention.

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 Alagille syndrome, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, including Alagille syndrome, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of congenital conditions, including Alagille syndrome, enabling better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Alagille Syndrome Alliance

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Alagille Syndrome Alliance

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common congenital anomalies associated with Alagille syndrome?

Common congenital anomalies associated with Alagille syndrome include esophageal atresia, Hirschsprung disease, imperforate anus, and cardiac defects such as pulmonary stenosis. Accurate coding requires documentation of all present anomalies.