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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesK74.1

K74.1

Billable

Hepatic sclerosis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 K74.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hepatic sclerosis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Hepatic sclerosis, also known as hepatic fibrosis, is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins, leading to the scarring of liver tissue. This condition often arises as a consequence of chronic liver diseases, such as hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms of liver dysfunction, including jaundice, ascites, and portal hypertension, although early stages may be asymptomatic. The liver anatomy involved includes hepatocytes, portal tracts, and the hepatic vasculature, which become progressively altered as fibrosis advances. Disease progression can lead to cirrhosis and ultimately liver failure if not managed appropriately. Diagnostic considerations include imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI, and liver biopsy to assess the degree of fibrosis. Non-invasive markers and scoring systems like the Fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index or the AST to Platelet Ratio Index (APRI) may also assist in evaluating the severity of hepatic sclerosis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires differentiation from other liver conditions and staging of fibrosis.
  • Treatment complexity: Management may involve lifestyle changes, pharmacotherapy, or referral for liver transplantation.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical history, imaging results, and possibly biopsy findings are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Accurate coding necessitates understanding the nuances of liver disease classifications.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of the severity of liver disease.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding the cause of liver disease or fibrosis staging.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of supporting documentation for the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Gastroenterology

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

Hepatology

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Hepatic sclerosis has significant clinical implications, as it can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure, impacting patient quality of life and increasing healthcare utilization. The condition is prevalent in populations with high rates of chronic liver disease, influencing public health strategies aimed at prevention and management. Quality measures may include monitoring liver function and fibrosis progression, which are critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Hepatic sclerosis has significant clinical implications, as it can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure, impacting patient quality of life and increasing healthcare utilization. The condition is prevalent in populations with high rates of chronic liver disease, influencing public health strategies aimed at prevention and management. Quality measures may include monitoring liver function and fibrosis progression, which are critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the need for thorough documentation to support the diagnosis and any treatments provided. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for procedures like liver biopsy. Coding best practices involve ensuring that all relevant clinical information is captured and that the coding accurately reflects the severity of the condition.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for K00-K99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by K74.1?

K74.1 specifically covers hepatic sclerosis resulting from chronic liver diseases, including but not limited to hepatitis B and C, alcoholic liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. It is important to document the underlying cause of liver damage.

When should K74.1 be used instead of related codes?

K74.1 should be used when there is evidence of hepatic sclerosis, particularly when fibrosis is confirmed through biopsy or imaging. It is distinct from K74.0 (simple hepatic fibrosis) and K74.2 (other chronic hepatitis) based on the severity and clinical implications.

What documentation supports K74.1?

Documentation for K74.1 should include a comprehensive clinical history, results from imaging studies, and liver biopsy findings if performed. Additionally, any laboratory results indicating liver function impairment should be included.