Hepatopulmonary syndrome
ICD-10 K76.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hepatopulmonary syndrome.
Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a complex condition characterized by the triad of liver disease, pulmonary vascular dilatation, and hypoxemia. It primarily occurs in patients with advanced liver disease, particularly cirrhosis, and is associated with portal hypertension. The pathophysiology involves the release of vasodilators, leading to increased blood flow in the pulmonary circulation and impaired gas exchange. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as dyspnea, platypnea (shortness of breath that worsens in the upright position), and cyanosis. The anatomy involved includes the liver, which is compromised in function, and the pulmonary vasculature, which becomes dilated and dysfunctional. Disease progression can lead to significant respiratory distress and is often a marker of poor prognosis in liver disease. Diagnostic considerations include arterial blood gas analysis, echocardiography, and lung function tests to assess hypoxemia and pulmonary function. The diagnosis of HPS is confirmed when there is evidence of liver disease, hypoxemia, and intrapulmonary vascular dilatation, typically assessed through contrast-enhanced echocardiography.
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
K76.81 specifically covers hepatopulmonary syndrome, which is associated with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension, leading to pulmonary vascular changes and hypoxemia.
K76.81 should be used when a patient has confirmed hepatopulmonary syndrome, characterized by liver disease and associated pulmonary symptoms, rather than general liver disease codes.
Documentation should include evidence of liver disease, pulmonary symptoms, and results from diagnostic tests such as echocardiography and arterial blood gas analysis to confirm hypoxemia.
