The medical diagnosis code R73.09, as defined within the ICD-10-CM system, is crucial for classifying and documenting cases of “Other abnormal glucose.” This code is billable and specific, utilized for reimbursement purposes and became effective on October 1, 2024, in its 2025 edition. It is the American version of ICD-10-CM R73.09, and it’s important to note that international versions might present variations.
This diagnostic code is applicable to conditions characterized by “Abnormal glucose NOS” and “Abnormal non-fasting glucose tolerance.” Understanding the scope of R73.09 requires examining its approximate synonyms and the clinical information it encompasses.
Several terms are used interchangeably with R73.09, providing a clearer picture of its application. These synonyms include “Abnormal glucose measurement,” “Abnormal glucose tolerance test,” “Blood glucose abnormal,” and significantly, “Elevated hemoglobin a1c measurement” and “High hemoglobin a1c level.” The inclusion of “Prediabetes” in the synonyms highlights the code’s relevance in early diabetes detection and management.
Clinically, R73.09 addresses scenarios where blood glucose levels deviate from the norm, but do not meet the full criteria for diabetes mellitus. Specifically, it can refer to a condition where fasting plasma glucose levels are below 140 mg/dL, yet plasma glucose levels exceed 200 mg/dL at 30, 60, or 90 minutes during a glucose tolerance test. This pattern is frequently observed in diabetes mellitus but can also arise from other factors such as immune disorders, genetic syndromes, and cirrhosis.
Elevated hemoglobin A1c, a key indicator linked to R73.09, reflects average blood glucose levels over the past two to three months. While R73.09 broadly covers “abnormal glucose,” the inclusion of “Elevated hemoglobin a1c measurement” as a synonym underscores its importance in identifying individuals at risk or in the early stages of glucose metabolism disorders. Prediabetes, often associated with elevated hemoglobin A1c, is characterized by blood glucose levels higher than normal but not yet in the diabetic range. It is a critical stage as it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Lifestyle interventions, such as weight loss and increased physical activity, are often recommended to manage prediabetes and prevent progression to diabetes.
The ICD-10-CM code R73.09 has a consistent history since its introduction in 2016, with no changes through the 2025 edition. It is positioned within the Diagnostic Related Groups (MS-DRG v42.0), further solidifying its role in medical coding and reimbursement. Understanding R73.09 and its association with elevated hemoglobin A1c is essential for healthcare professionals in accurately diagnosing and managing patients with abnormal glucose levels and prediabetes.
