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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD52.0

D52.0

Billable

Dietary folate deficiency anemia

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 D52.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of dietary folate deficiency anemia.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Dietary folate deficiency anemia is a type of megaloblastic anemia characterized by a deficiency of folate (vitamin B9) in the diet, leading to impaired DNA synthesis and abnormal red blood cell production. Folate is essential for the formation of red blood cells and the synthesis of nucleic acids. This condition often presents with symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, pallor, and shortness of breath. It can be caused by inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption syndromes, or increased physiological demands, such as during pregnancy. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests showing macrocytic anemia, low serum folate levels, and elevated homocysteine levels. Treatment primarily includes dietary modifications to increase folate intake, supplementation with folic acid, and addressing any underlying causes of malabsorption or increased demand. Regular monitoring of blood counts and folate levels is essential to ensure effective management and prevent complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between types of anemia (iron deficiency vs. folate deficiency)
  • Understanding dietary sources of folate and patient dietary habits
  • Recognizing symptoms that overlap with other types of anemia
  • Interpreting laboratory results accurately

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of dietary history
  • Failure to document laboratory results supporting the diagnosis
  • Misclassification of anemia type
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment efficacy

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Hematology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed blood work results, dietary assessments, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with fatigue and pallor, requiring differential diagnosis of anemia types.

Billing Considerations

Ensure comprehensive documentation of lab results and dietary intake to support diagnosis.

Nutrition

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of dietary habits, nutritional counseling notes, and follow-up evaluations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with malnutrition or dietary restrictions leading to anemia.

Billing Considerations

Documenting specific dietary interventions and patient compliance is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D52.0 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, D52
  • 0 should be used when the anemia is specifically due to dietary folate deficiency
  • It is important to document the cause of the deficiency and any related conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D52.0 When
  • Exclusion criteria include anemia due to other nutritional deficiencies or chronic diseases

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

85025CPT Code

Complete blood count (CBC) with differential

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate anemia and monitor treatment response.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the CBC and any relevant symptoms.

Specialty Considerations

Hematology specialists should ensure comprehensive lab results are included.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of dietary deficiencies, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. D52.0 provides a clear distinction from other types of anemia, facilitating better patient management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of dietary deficiencies, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. D52.0 provides a clear distinction from other types of anemia, facilitating better patient management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of dietary deficiencies, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. D52.0 provides a clear distinction from other types of anemia, facilitating better patient management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC - Folate Deficiency

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC - Folate Deficiency

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of dietary folate deficiency anemia?

Common causes include inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption syndromes, increased physiological demands (such as during pregnancy), and certain medications that interfere with folate metabolism.