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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesE21.3

E21.3

Billable

Hyperparathyroidism, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 E21.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hyperparathyroidism, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Hyperparathyroidism is a condition characterized by an overproduction of parathyroid hormone (PTH) from the parathyroid glands, which are small glands located in the neck behind the thyroid. This condition can lead to elevated levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia), which can cause a variety of symptoms including fatigue, weakness, depression, and bone pain. The parathyroid glands play a crucial role in regulating calcium levels in the body, and when they become overactive, it can disrupt the balance of calcium and phosphorus, leading to potential complications such as osteoporosis, kidney stones, and cardiovascular issues. Hyperparathyroidism can be classified into primary, secondary, and tertiary types, but when unspecified, it indicates that the exact cause or type has not been determined. This condition is often diagnosed through blood tests that measure calcium and PTH levels, and imaging studies may be used to assess for any underlying causes such as tumors or hyperplasia of the parathyroid glands. Treatment options may include surgical intervention, medication, or monitoring, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the hyperparathyroidism.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between primary, secondary, and tertiary hyperparathyroidism.
  • Understanding the relationship between parathyroid function and calcium metabolism.
  • Interpreting laboratory results accurately to confirm diagnosis.
  • Identifying associated conditions that may complicate coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of laboratory results.
  • Failure to specify the type of hyperparathyroidism.
  • Misinterpretation of symptoms related to hypercalcemia.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment outcomes.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed lab results, imaging studies, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with symptoms of hypercalcemia, routine follow-ups for known hyperparathyroidism.

Billing Considerations

Endocrinologists must document the specific type of hyperparathyroidism when known, as this affects treatment and management.

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of kidney function and calcium-phosphate balance.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with chronic kidney disease presenting with secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Billing Considerations

Nephrologists should document the relationship between kidney function and parathyroid hormone levels.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use E21.3 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, E21
  • 3 should be used when the type of hyperparathyroidism is not specified
  • Coders should ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis and that any related conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use E21.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

80048CPT Code

Calcium, total

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess calcium levels in patients suspected of hyperparathyroidism.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Endocrinologists should ensure that calcium levels are monitored regularly.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hyperparathyroidism, enabling better tracking of the condition and its management. The unspecified code (E21.3) serves as a placeholder when further specification is not available, but coders must strive for accuracy to avoid potential audit issues.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hyperparathyroidism, enabling better tracking of the condition and its management. The unspecified code (E21.3) serves as a placeholder when further specification is not available, but coders must strive for accuracy to avoid potential audit issues.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hyperparathyroidism, enabling better tracking of the condition and its management. The unspecified code (E21.3) serves as a placeholder when further specification is not available, but coders must strive for accuracy to avoid potential audit issues.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of hyperparathyroidism?

Common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, depression, bone pain, and kidney stones. Patients may also experience gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and constipation.