The D72829 Diagnosis Code, officially recognized within the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), is a crucial tool in medical coding and diagnostics. Specifically, D72.829 is designated as the code for “Elevated white blood cell count, unspecified”. This code is utilized when a patient presents with leukocytosis, a condition characterized by an increased number of white blood cells (leukocytes) in the blood, and the specific type or cause of the elevation is not yet determined or specified.
Alt text: Medical professional reviewing a blood test result indicating elevated white blood cell count, emphasizing the diagnostic process related to D72829 diagnosis code.
Within the medical field, accurate coding is essential for proper documentation, billing, and statistical tracking. The D72.829 code falls under the category of “Other specified disorders of white blood cells” within the ICD-10-CM system. It is a billable/specific code, meaning it is precise enough for reimbursement purposes in healthcare claims. The code’s effectiveness for diagnoses dates back to October 1, 2015, with the 2016 ICD-10-CM update, and it remains current through the 2025 edition, effective October 1, 2024. This continuity underscores its established place in the diagnostic coding landscape.
Synonyms commonly associated with D72.829 include leukocytosis and elevated leukocytes, unspecified. Leukocytosis itself is not a disease but rather a sign that the body is responding to a condition, such as infection, inflammation, certain medications, or even stress. It is clinically defined as a transient increase in leukocytes in body fluid. The “unspecified” designation in D72.829 is key. It indicates that while the elevated white blood cell count is confirmed, further investigation is needed to pinpoint the underlying cause and type of leukocytosis (e.g., neutrophilia, lymphocytosis, eosinophilia, etc.).
For healthcare providers, using the D72.829 diagnosis code appropriately is the first step in addressing elevated white blood cell counts. It signals the presence of leukocytosis and prompts further diagnostic steps to determine the etiology. Understanding the nuances of codes like D72.829 is vital for accurate medical coding, ensuring appropriate patient care and efficient healthcare administration. While D72.829 indicates an elevated white blood cell count without further specification, it serves as an important starting point in the diagnostic process, guiding clinicians towards identifying the precise condition affecting the patient.
