Prediabetes
ICD-10 R73.03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of prediabetes.
Prediabetes is a metabolic condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels that are not high enough to be classified as diabetes mellitus. It is often identified through abnormal laboratory findings, such as fasting plasma glucose levels between 100-125 mg/dL, an oral glucose tolerance test result of 140-199 mg/dL, or a hemoglobin A1c level between 5.7% and 6.4%. Patients may not exhibit overt symptoms, but they are at increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other metabolic disorders. Common signs include insulin resistance, which may manifest as acanthosis nigricans, and patients may report fatigue or increased thirst. The condition is often asymptomatic, making routine screening essential for early detection and intervention. Lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, are critical in managing prediabetes and preventing progression to diabetes.
Detailed documentation of patient history, risk factors, and laboratory results is essential. Providers should note any lifestyle modifications or referrals to dietitians.
Routine screening in adults with risk factors such as obesity, family history of diabetes, or hypertension.
Consideration of comorbid conditions that may affect glucose metabolism.
Acute care documentation should include any presenting symptoms, vital signs, and immediate lab results.
Patients presenting with symptoms of hyperglycemia or related complications.
Emergency settings may require rapid assessment and intervention, necessitating clear documentation of findings.
Used when performing glucose testing to confirm prediabetes diagnosis.
Document the reason for the test and the results.
Internal medicine may require additional lifestyle counseling documentation.
Prediabetes can be diagnosed using fasting plasma glucose tests, oral glucose tolerance tests, or hemoglobin A1c tests. Each test has specific thresholds for diagnosis.
Patients at high risk for diabetes should be screened at least annually, while those with normal glucose levels may be screened every 3 years.
