Hepatic failure, not elsewhere classified
Chapter 11:Diseases of the digestive system
ICD-10 K72 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of hepatic failure, not elsewhere classified.
K72 refers to hepatic failure not classified elsewhere, which encompasses a spectrum of liver dysfunctions leading to the inability of the liver to perform its normal synthetic and metabolic functions. Clinically, patients may present with jaundice, ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and coagulopathy. The liver, a vital organ in the digestive system, is responsible for detoxifying harmful substances, producing bile for digestion, and synthesizing proteins essential for blood clotting. Disease progression can vary, with acute hepatic failure occurring rapidly, often due to viral hepatitis, drug toxicity, or ischemia, while chronic hepatic failure may develop over years due to conditions like cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis. Diagnostic considerations include liver function tests, imaging studies, and sometimes liver biopsy to ascertain the underlying cause. Early identification and management are crucial to prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
K72 covers various forms of hepatic failure, including acute liver failure, chronic liver failure, and liver failure due to unspecified causes. It is important to differentiate it from other codes that specify the etiology of liver failure.
K72 should be used when the liver failure is not classified under other specific codes (e.g., K71 for toxic liver disease or K73 for chronic hepatitis). It is appropriate when the cause of liver failure is unknown or not specified.
Documentation must include clinical findings, laboratory results indicating liver dysfunction, imaging studies, and any treatments administered. A clear narrative of the patient's history and the progression of liver failure is essential.
