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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesI15.8

I15.8

Billable

Other secondary hypertension

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 I15.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other secondary hypertension.

Key Diagnostic Point:

I15.8 refers to other secondary hypertension, a condition characterized by elevated blood pressure due to identifiable underlying causes. Unlike primary hypertension, which has no specific origin, secondary hypertension can result from various cardiovascular diseases, endocrine disorders, renal diseases, or certain medications. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or visual disturbances, but many remain asymptomatic until complications arise. The anatomy involved primarily includes the cardiovascular system, particularly the heart and blood vessels, as well as the kidneys and endocrine glands, which play crucial roles in blood pressure regulation. Disease progression can lead to serious complications, including heart failure, stroke, and chronic kidney disease if not properly managed. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and targeted laboratory tests to identify the underlying cause of hypertension, such as imaging studies or hormonal assays. Accurate diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and management of secondary hypertension.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors include misclassification of primary vs. secondary hypertension.
  • Documentation gaps may arise if the underlying cause is not clearly identified.
  • Billing challenges can occur if the documentation does not support the complexity of the condition.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Cardiology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Secondary hypertension significantly impacts population health, as it is often associated with serious comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and renal failure. Effective management of secondary hypertension can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization. Quality measures focus on early detection and treatment of underlying causes, which can lead to better control of blood pressure and decreased incidence of complications. Epidemiologically, secondary hypertension is prevalent in specific populations, particularly those with chronic kidney disease or endocrine disorders.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Secondary hypertension significantly impacts population health, as it is often associated with serious comorbidities such as cardiovascular disease and renal failure. Effective management of secondary hypertension can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization. Quality measures focus on early detection and treatment of underlying causes, which can lead to better control of blood pressure and decreased incidence of complications. Epidemiologically, secondary hypertension is prevalent in specific populations, particularly those with chronic kidney disease or endocrine disorders.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement. Providers should include detailed clinical notes that outline the diagnostic process, treatment plans, and any referrals made to specialists. Common denials may arise if the documentation does not clearly establish the link between hypertension and its secondary cause. It is essential to use the correct modifiers and ensure that all services rendered are medically necessary and supported by the documentation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for I00-I99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for I00-I99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by I15.8?

I15.8 encompasses various conditions leading to secondary hypertension, including renal artery stenosis, Cushing's syndrome, hyperaldosteronism, pheochromocytoma, and certain medications such as NSAIDs and corticosteroids.

When should I15.8 be used instead of related codes?

I15.8 should be used when hypertension is secondary to a specific identifiable condition, as opposed to I10, which is used for essential hypertension without a known cause.

What documentation supports I15.8?

Documentation should include a detailed patient history, results of diagnostic tests identifying the underlying cause, and evidence of hypertension management, including treatment plans and follow-up evaluations.