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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR74.0

R74.0

Nonspecific elevation of levels of transaminase and lactic acid dehydrogenase [LDH]

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

Code Description

ICD-10 R74.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nonspecific elevation of levels of transaminase and lactic acid dehydrogenase [ldh].

Key Diagnostic Point:

R74.0 refers to a nonspecific elevation of transaminases (such as AST and ALT) and lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) in the blood. These enzymes are typically released into the bloodstream when there is damage to liver cells or other tissues. The elevation of these enzymes can indicate a variety of conditions, including liver disease, muscle injury, hemolysis, and certain infections. However, the term 'nonspecific' indicates that the elevation does not point to a specific diagnosis and requires further investigation to determine the underlying cause. Clinicians often order additional tests, such as liver function tests, imaging studies, or specific serologies, to clarify the etiology of the enzyme elevation. Symptoms may vary widely depending on the underlying condition, ranging from asymptomatic findings to jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain. Accurate documentation of the clinical context and any associated symptoms is crucial for appropriate coding and management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes requiring differential diagnosis.
  • Need for additional testing to determine the specific etiology.
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the nonspecific nature of the findings.
  • Potential overlap with other codes related to liver function abnormalities.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the clinical context leading to the elevation.
  • Failure to specify the nonspecific nature of the findings.
  • Misuse of related codes that may not accurately reflect the patient's condition.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation to clarify the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history and physical examination findings, including any associated symptoms and risk factors for liver disease.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with fatigue, abdominal discomfort, or incidental findings on routine blood tests.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of medication history, alcohol use, and potential viral hepatitis exposure.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute care documentation should include vital signs, presenting symptoms, and any immediate interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute abdominal pain or altered mental status where liver function tests are part of the workup.

Billing Considerations

Rapid assessment of potential causes, including acute liver failure or hemolytic processes.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R74.0 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, R74
  • 0 should be used when there is a documented elevation of transaminases and LDH without a definitive diagnosis
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the nonspecific nature of the findings and that any additional tests or evaluations are noted

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R74.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

80048CPT Code

Comprehensive metabolic panel

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess liver function and detect enzyme elevations.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the metabolic panel and any relevant clinical findings.

Specialty Considerations

Internal medicine may require more detailed documentation of risk factors.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nonspecific findings, improving the granularity of data collection and analysis. R74.0 provides a clear designation for nonspecific enzyme elevations, aiding in clinical decision-making and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nonspecific findings, improving the granularity of data collection and analysis. R74.0 provides a clear designation for nonspecific enzyme elevations, aiding in clinical decision-making and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nonspecific findings, improving the granularity of data collection and analysis. R74.0 provides a clear designation for nonspecific enzyme elevations, aiding in clinical decision-making and research.

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 does R74.0 indicate?

R74.0 indicates a nonspecific elevation of transaminases and LDH, requiring further investigation to determine the underlying cause.

When should I use R74.0?

Use R74.0 when laboratory tests show elevated levels of transaminases and LDH without a specific diagnosis provided.

What are common causes of elevated transaminases and LDH?

Common causes include liver disease, muscle injury, hemolysis, and certain infections. A thorough clinical evaluation is necessary to identify the specific cause.

How can I avoid coding errors with R74.0?

Ensure that documentation clearly supports the nonspecific nature of the findings and that any additional tests or evaluations are noted.