Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP)
ICD-10 R79.82 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of elevated c-reactive protein (crp).
Elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) is a laboratory finding indicating increased levels of CRP in the blood, which is a marker of inflammation. CRP is produced by the liver in response to inflammatory cytokines, particularly interleukin-6 (IL-6). Elevated CRP levels can be indicative of various conditions, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and chronic inflammatory states. Clinically, CRP is often used to assess the severity of inflammation and monitor treatment responses. Symptoms associated with elevated CRP may vary widely depending on the underlying cause, but common presentations include fever, malaise, and localized pain or swelling. It is important to note that CRP is a non-specific marker; thus, elevated levels alone do not provide a definitive diagnosis but rather signal the need for further investigation to identify the underlying etiology.
Documentation should include the reason for CRP testing, clinical findings, and any relevant history that may explain the elevation.
Patients presenting with unexplained fever, joint pain, or signs of infection.
Ensure that the clinical picture supports the need for CRP testing and that any underlying conditions are documented.
Acute care documentation should detail the patient's presenting symptoms, the rationale for CRP testing, and any immediate interventions.
Patients with acute infections, sepsis, or inflammatory conditions requiring urgent care.
In emergency settings, rapid assessment and documentation are crucial to support the use of R79.82.
Used when CRP levels are assessed in conjunction with clinical symptoms of inflammation.
Document the reason for the CRP test and any relevant clinical findings.
In internal medicine, ensure correlation with chronic disease management; in emergency medicine, document acute presentations.
An elevated CRP indicates the presence of inflammation in the body, which can be due to various conditions such as infections, autoimmune diseases, or chronic inflammatory states.
Yes, CRP levels can be normal in some patients with active disease, particularly in chronic conditions where inflammation may not be reflected in CRP levels.
