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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesE06.0

E06.0

Billable

Acute thyroiditis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 E06.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute thyroiditis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute thyroiditis is an inflammatory condition of the thyroid gland that can occur due to various infectious agents, autoimmune responses, or other underlying conditions. It is characterized by sudden onset of thyroid pain, swelling, and tenderness, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The inflammation can lead to alterations in thyroid hormone production, potentially resulting in transient hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Acute thyroiditis may be caused by bacterial infections, viral infections, or autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, thyroid function tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasound to assess the extent of inflammation and rule out abscess formation. Management may include antibiotics for bacterial infections, corticosteroids for autoimmune causes, and symptomatic treatment for pain and inflammation. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment and management of the condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between acute and chronic thyroiditis
  • Identifying the underlying cause (infectious vs. autoimmune)
  • Interpreting thyroid function tests in the context of inflammation
  • Potential for co-existing thyroid disorders (hyperthyroidism/hypothyroidism)

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of thyroiditis
  • Misinterpretation of thyroid function test results
  • Inconsistent coding of acute versus chronic conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on symptoms, lab results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with neck pain, fever, and abnormal thyroid function tests.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the cause of thyroiditis and any associated thyroid dysfunction.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive history and physical examination notes, including symptom duration and severity.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with acute onset of thyroid-related symptoms, often referred for further evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Document any referrals to specialists and follow-up care plans.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use E06.0 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, E06
  • 0 should be used when the condition is specifically acute thyroiditis
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and that any underlying causes are clearly identified

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use E06.0 When
  • Exclusion criteria include chronic thyroiditis and other thyroid disorders that do not fit the acute presentation

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

84443CPT Code

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate thyroid function in patients with suspected thyroiditis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the test and any relevant clinical findings.

Specialty Considerations

Endocrinologists may require additional tests to assess thyroid hormone levels.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of thyroid conditions, including acute thyroiditis, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track and manage thyroid disorders effectively.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of thyroid conditions, including acute thyroiditis, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track and manage thyroid disorders effectively.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of thyroid conditions, including acute thyroiditis, which improves data accuracy and enhances the ability to track and manage thyroid disorders effectively.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Thyroid Association Guidelines

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Thyroid Association Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of acute thyroiditis?

Acute thyroiditis can be caused by bacterial infections, viral infections, or autoimmune responses. Identifying the underlying cause is essential for appropriate treatment.