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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR93.42

R93.42

Abnormal radiologic findings on diagnostic imaging of kidney

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 R93.42 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of abnormal radiologic findings on diagnostic imaging of kidney.

Key Diagnostic Point:

R93.42 is used to classify abnormal findings observed in diagnostic imaging studies of the kidneys, such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs. These findings may include the presence of masses, cysts, stones, or other structural abnormalities that do not have a definitive diagnosis at the time of imaging. The abnormal findings can indicate a range of conditions, from benign cysts to more serious pathologies like tumors or hydronephrosis. It is crucial for healthcare providers to document the specific nature of the abnormality, as this will guide further diagnostic workup and management. The code does not specify the underlying cause of the abnormality, which necessitates further investigation to determine the appropriate clinical action. Accurate coding requires a thorough understanding of the imaging results and the clinical context in which they were obtained.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying conditions represented by the abnormal findings.
  • Need for precise documentation of imaging results and clinical context.
  • Differentiation from other similar codes related to kidney abnormalities.
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other renal conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the imaging findings.
  • Failure to link the abnormal findings to a specific clinical scenario.
  • Misuse of the code when a definitive diagnosis is available.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation regarding the management of the abnormal findings.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on the patient's history, physical examination findings, and the specific nature of the imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with flank pain, hematuria, or abnormal lab results prompting imaging studies.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that any follow-up actions or referrals are documented to support the need for the imaging study.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute care notes that include the patient's presenting symptoms, imaging results, and any immediate interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with acute renal colic, trauma, or suspected urinary obstruction requiring rapid imaging.

Billing Considerations

Document the urgency of the situation and any immediate findings that necessitate further intervention.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R93.42 When
  • Coders should refer to the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the abnormal findings are not classified elsewhere
  • It is essential to document the reason for the imaging and the findings accurately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R93.42 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

74176CPT Code

CT abdomen and pelvis with contrast

Clinical Scenario

Used when imaging is performed to evaluate for abnormalities in the kidneys.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the CT scan, findings, and any follow-up plans.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the imaging is justified based on clinical symptoms.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of abnormal findings, improving the granularity of data collected for kidney-related conditions. R93.42 provides a clear classification for abnormal imaging results, facilitating better tracking and management of kidney health.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of abnormal findings, improving the granularity of data collected for kidney-related conditions. R93.42 provides a clear classification for abnormal imaging results, facilitating better tracking and management of kidney health.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of abnormal findings, improving the granularity of data collected for kidney-related conditions. R93.42 provides a clear classification for abnormal imaging results, facilitating better tracking and management of kidney health.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

When should R93.42 be used?

R93.42 should be used when there are abnormal findings on kidney imaging that do not have a definitive diagnosis at the time of coding. It is important to document the findings and the clinical context.

Can R93.42 be used if a definitive diagnosis is later established?

No, if a definitive diagnosis is established, the appropriate diagnosis code should be used instead of R93.42.