The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) is a crucial tool in medical diagnosis coding and reporting. Among its extensive list of codes, R77.2 stands out as the diagnosis code for abnormality of alphafetoprotein. This code is used when healthcare providers need to document and classify cases involving abnormal levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in a patient’s blood.
R77.2 is designated as a billable and specific code within the ICD-10-CM system. This means it is precise enough to be used for reimbursement purposes in healthcare claims. The code officially came into effect on October 1, 2015, with the introduction of ICD-10-CM, and the latest 2025 edition, effective October 1, 2024, continues to list R77.2 without changes, highlighting its continued relevance in medical coding.
Alpha-fetoprotein is a protein produced in the liver of a developing fetus. In adults, AFP levels are typically low. Elevated levels can indicate certain types of cancer, such as liver cancer, testicular cancer, and ovarian cancer. It can also be elevated in noncancerous conditions, including liver diseases like hepatitis and cirrhosis. Conversely, abnormally low levels of AFP during pregnancy can sometimes be associated with chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus. Therefore, the diagnosis code R77.2 is essential for capturing these various clinical scenarios where AFP levels are outside the normal range.
Within the ICD-10-CM hierarchy, R77.2 falls under the broader category of R77, which is designated for “Other abnormalities of plasma proteins.” This places it alongside related codes such as R77.0 for “Abnormality of albumin” and R77.1 for “Abnormality of globulin,” emphasizing its role in the context of plasma protein irregularities. Understanding the placement of R77.2 within this classification system helps medical coders accurately select the most appropriate code for each specific diagnosis.
For those working with medical billing and coding, particularly in contexts that involve laboratory results and diagnostic findings, familiarity with codes like R77.2 is paramount. It ensures accurate medical record-keeping, facilitates appropriate reimbursement, and contributes to comprehensive data collection for epidemiological and research purposes. The specificity of R77.2 allows for a clear and concise way to document abnormalities related to alpha-fetoprotein, making it an indispensable code in the modern healthcare coding landscape.
