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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 4: Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseasesE45

E45

Billable

Retarded development following protein-calorie malnutrition

Chapter 4:Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases

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

Code Description

ICD-10 E45 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of retarded development following protein-calorie malnutrition.

Key Diagnostic Point:

E45 refers to retarded development that occurs as a consequence of protein-calorie malnutrition, a condition characterized by inadequate intake of protein and calories necessary for normal growth and development. This malnutrition can lead to significant physical and cognitive impairments, particularly in children, who are most vulnerable during critical periods of growth. The condition can manifest as stunted growth, delayed milestones, and impaired cognitive function. Protein-energy malnutrition encompasses two primary forms: kwashiorkor, which is primarily due to protein deficiency despite adequate caloric intake, and marasmus, which results from a severe deficiency of both protein and calories. Both conditions can lead to nutritional deficiencies that further exacerbate developmental delays. Diagnosis typically involves clinical assessment, nutritional history, and anthropometric measurements. Management focuses on nutritional rehabilitation and addressing any underlying health issues. Early intervention is crucial to mitigate long-term developmental consequences.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between kwashiorkor and marasmus
  • Assessing severity of malnutrition
  • Documenting associated developmental delays
  • Understanding the impact of malnutrition on growth parameters

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of nutritional assessment
  • Failure to specify type of malnutrition
  • Lack of evidence for developmental delays
  • Improper linkage between diagnosis and treatment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed growth charts, nutritional assessments, and developmental milestones.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with growth failure, delayed milestones, or signs of malnutrition.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of dietary intake and any interventions provided.

Nutrition

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive dietary evaluations and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing nutritional rehabilitation for malnutrition.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the specific nutritional deficiencies and their impact on development.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use E45 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the patient's nutritional status and developmental assessments
  • Include any relevant clinical findings that support the diagnosis of retarded development due to protein
  • calorie malnutrition

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use E45 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

97802CPT Code

Medical nutrition therapy, individual, face-to-face

Clinical Scenario

Used for patients receiving nutritional counseling for malnutrition.

Documentation Requirements

Document the patient's nutritional status and goals of therapy.

Specialty Considerations

Nutrition specialists should ensure comprehensive dietary assessments 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 malnutrition-related conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. E45 provides a clear framework for documenting retarded development due to protein-calorie malnutrition.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malnutrition-related conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. E45 provides a clear framework for documenting retarded development due to protein-calorie malnutrition.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of malnutrition-related conditions, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. E45 provides a clear framework for documenting retarded development due to protein-calorie malnutrition.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    World Health Organization - Malnutrition

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    World Health Organization - Malnutrition

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between kwashiorkor and marasmus?

Kwashiorkor is primarily due to protein deficiency despite adequate caloric intake, characterized by edema and delayed growth. Marasmus results from a severe deficiency of both protein and calories, leading to significant weight loss and muscle wasting.