Iron deficiency
ICD-10 E61.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of iron deficiency.
Iron deficiency is a common nutritional disorder characterized by insufficient iron levels in the body, leading to decreased hemoglobin production and potentially resulting in iron deficiency anemia. This condition can arise from inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption syndromes, chronic blood loss, or increased physiological demands such as during pregnancy or growth spurts in children. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as fatigue, pallor, shortness of breath, and dizziness. Diagnosis typically involves laboratory tests including serum ferritin, hemoglobin levels, and complete blood count (CBC). Treatment focuses on dietary modifications to increase iron intake, such as incorporating iron-rich foods (e.g., red meat, leafy greens, legumes) and may include oral or intravenous iron supplementation depending on the severity of the deficiency and the patient's overall health status. Monitoring and follow-up are essential to ensure effective treatment and to prevent recurrence.
Detailed dietary history, symptoms, and laboratory results.
Patients presenting with fatigue, pallor, or other symptoms suggestive of anemia.
Ensure that the cause of iron deficiency is documented to support the diagnosis.
Documentation of any gastrointestinal conditions that may contribute to malabsorption.
Patients with chronic gastrointestinal bleeding or malabsorption syndromes.
Document any endoscopic findings or treatments that may affect iron absorption.
Used to evaluate anemia and iron deficiency.
Document the reason for the CBC and any relevant symptoms.
Primary care providers should ensure that the CBC results are interpreted in the context of dietary history.
Common causes include inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption syndromes, chronic blood loss (e.g., from menstruation or gastrointestinal bleeding), and increased physiological demands such as during pregnancy or growth spurts.
