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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN04.0

N04.0

Billable

Nephrotic syndrome with minor glomerular abnormality

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N04.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome with minor glomerular abnormality.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Nephrotic syndrome is characterized by a triad of symptoms: significant proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, and edema. In cases classified under N04.0, the nephrotic syndrome is associated with minor glomerular abnormalities, which may not be evident on routine light microscopy but can be identified through electron microscopy or immunofluorescence. Patients typically present with symptoms such as swelling in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes, and may also experience fatigue and weight gain due to fluid retention. Laboratory findings often reveal proteinuria exceeding 3.5 grams per day, low serum albumin levels, and possible hematuria. Renal biopsy may show minimal changes, which is indicative of the minor glomerular abnormality. Management of nephrotic syndrome often involves corticosteroids, diuretics for edema, and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors to reduce proteinuria. Regular follow-up with nephrology is essential to monitor kidney function and manage complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other types of nephrotic syndrome
  • Need for precise documentation of laboratory findings
  • Variability in clinical presentation
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other renal conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of proteinuria levels
  • Failure to document renal biopsy findings
  • Misclassification of nephrotic syndrome type
  • Lack of follow-up notes indicating ongoing management

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Nephrology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including symptoms, lab results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with edema, proteinuria, and renal function monitoring.

Billing Considerations

Ensure renal biopsy results are clearly documented to support the diagnosis.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth and development assessments alongside nephrotic syndrome management.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with nephrotic syndrome symptoms and requiring steroid therapy.

Billing Considerations

Consider age-specific presentations and management protocols.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N04.0 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding nephrotic syndrome, ensuring accurate documentation of symptoms, lab results, and treatment plans
  • Include any relevant comorbidities that may affect management

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N04.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

Renal biopsy CPT codeCPT Code

Renal biopsy

Clinical Scenario

When a renal biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome.

Documentation Requirements

Document indication for biopsy, findings, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Nephrology specialists should ensure biopsy results are clearly linked to the diagnosis.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nephrotic syndrome, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. N04.0 provides a clear distinction for nephrotic syndrome with minor glomerular abnormalities, which aids in clinical management and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nephrotic syndrome, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. N04.0 provides a clear distinction for nephrotic syndrome with minor glomerular abnormalities, which aids in clinical management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. N04.0 provides a clear distinction for nephrotic syndrome with minor glomerular abnormalities, which aids in clinical management and research.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Nephrology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Nephrology

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of nephrotic syndrome?

Common symptoms include significant swelling (edema), especially in the legs and around the eyes, fatigue, and weight gain due to fluid retention. Patients may also experience foamy urine due to high protein content.

How is nephrotic syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, laboratory tests showing proteinuria, low serum albumin, and possibly a renal biopsy to assess glomerular changes.