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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesE10.21

E10.21

Billable

Type 1 diabetes mellitus with diabetic nephropathy

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

Code Description

ICD-10 E10.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus with diabetic nephropathy.

Key Diagnostic Point:

E10.21 refers to Type 1 diabetes mellitus with diabetic nephropathy, a serious complication of diabetes characterized by kidney damage due to prolonged high blood sugar levels. In Type 1 diabetes, the body does not produce insulin, leading to elevated glucose levels that can damage blood vessels in the kidneys over time. Diabetic nephropathy is marked by the presence of protein in the urine (albuminuria), decreased kidney function, and can progress to end-stage renal disease if not managed effectively. Patients with this condition often require close monitoring of their HbA1c levels, which should ideally be maintained below 7% to minimize complications. Insulin management is crucial, as patients typically require exogenous insulin to control their blood glucose levels. Regular screening for nephropathy is recommended, including urine tests for microalbumin and serum creatinine levels to assess kidney function. Early detection and intervention can slow the progression of nephropathy and improve patient outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of diabetes management and complications.
  • Involves knowledge of renal function tests and their interpretation.
  • Documentation must clearly indicate the presence of nephropathy.
  • Differentiation from other types of diabetes and nephropathy is necessary.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of nephropathy.
  • Failure to document HbA1c levels.
  • Lack of evidence for insulin management.
  • Misclassification of diabetes type.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed records of blood glucose levels, HbA1c results, and insulin regimen.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of Type 1 diabetes with complications, including nephropathy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of diabetes management plans and nephropathy assessments.

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive renal function tests, urine analysis, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with renal impairment secondary to diabetes.

Billing Considerations

Document the stage of nephropathy and any interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use E10.21 When
  • According to ICD
  • CM guidelines, E10
  • 21 should be used when there is a documented diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes with nephropathy
  • Coders must ensure that the nephropathy is clearly linked to the diabetes diagnosis and that all relevant documentation supports the coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use E10.21 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

83036CPT Code

Hemoglobin A1c test

Clinical Scenario

Used to monitor glycemic control in patients with diabetes.

Documentation Requirements

Document the date of the test and results.

Specialty Considerations

Endocrinologists should ensure regular A1c testing is part of the management plan.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of diabetes-related complications, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic conditions like diabetic nephropathy.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of diabetes-related complications, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic conditions like diabetic nephropathy.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of diabetes-related complications, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better management of chronic conditions like diabetic nephropathy.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Diabetes Association

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Diabetes Association

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of coding E10.21?

Coding E10.21 accurately reflects the patient's condition, ensuring appropriate management and reimbursement for the complexities associated with Type 1 diabetes and its complications.