Finding of abnormal level of heavy metals in blood
ICD-10 R78.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of finding of abnormal level of heavy metals in blood.
R78.7 indicates the presence of abnormal levels of heavy metals in the blood, which can be indicative of various toxic exposures or underlying health conditions. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium can accumulate in the body and lead to significant health issues, including neurological, renal, and hematological disorders. Symptoms may vary widely depending on the specific metal involved and the level of exposure, ranging from fatigue, abdominal pain, and neurological deficits to more severe manifestations like seizures or organ failure. Laboratory findings typically include elevated levels of specific heavy metals in blood tests, and these findings must be interpreted in the context of clinical symptoms and potential exposure history. It is crucial for healthcare providers to assess the patient's occupational and environmental exposure history to determine the source of heavy metal exposure and guide further management.
Detailed patient history including occupational and environmental exposures, specific symptoms, and lab results.
Patients presenting with nonspecific symptoms such as fatigue or gastrointestinal complaints, requiring further investigation for heavy metal exposure.
Consideration of comorbid conditions that may affect heavy metal metabolism or excretion.
Acute care documentation including immediate symptoms, lab results, and any interventions performed.
Acute presentations of heavy metal poisoning, such as lead or mercury toxicity, requiring rapid assessment and treatment.
Timeliness of documentation is critical in emergency settings to ensure appropriate coding and billing.
Used when testing for lead levels in patients suspected of lead exposure.
Document the reason for testing and any relevant exposure history.
Internal medicine and pediatrics often order this test for at-risk populations.
Symptoms such as unexplained fatigue, neurological changes, gastrointestinal issues, or a known history of exposure to heavy metals warrant testing for abnormal levels.
