Understanding diagnosis codes is crucial in healthcare for accurate billing, medical records, and statistical tracking. Within the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), codes provide a standardized way to classify and report diagnoses. This article delves into the specifics of diagnosis code E83.110, which is designated for Hereditary Hemochromatosis. We will explore what this code signifies, its clinical relevance, and other important details for a complete understanding.
Decoding ICD-10-CM Code E83.110: Hereditary Hemochromatosis
ICD-10-CM code E83.110 is a billable/specific code, meaning it is precise enough to be used for reimbursement purposes. This code officially came into effect on October 1, 2015, marking the beginning of the non-draft ICD-10-CM era, with the most recent updates reflecting changes up to the 2025 edition, effective from October 1, 2024. It’s important to note that this is the American ICD-10-CM version, and international adaptations of ICD-10 E83.110 may have variations.
Alt text: ICD-10-CM code E83.110 for Hereditary Hemochromatosis displayed with applicable conditions and effective dates.
What is Hereditary Hemochromatosis?
Hereditary Hemochromatosis, the condition represented by code E83.110, is a genetic disorder characterized by excessive iron absorption from the diet. This leads to iron overload in the body, with iron accumulating in various organs, particularly the liver, heart, and pancreas. Historically, this condition has been referred to by several terms, including:
- Bronzed diabetes: Highlighting the skin discoloration and diabetes that can occur.
- Pigmentary cirrhosis (of liver): Describing the liver damage and skin pigmentation associated with the disease.
- Primary (hereditary) hemochromatosis: Emphasizing the genetic and primary nature of the condition.
These terms are considered “Applicable To” annotations for code E83.110, indicating they are encompassed within this diagnostic classification.
Clinical Significance and Manifestations of Hemochromatosis
The buildup of iron in Hereditary Hemochromatosis can lead to significant tissue damage and organ dysfunction. The clinical information associated with E83.110 highlights several key aspects:
- Iron Overload and Organ Damage: The excess iron storage can cause a range of problems, including liver disease (cirrhosis), heart issues (cardiomyopathy, heart failure), pancreatic damage (diabetes), and even increase the risk of certain cancers.
- Symptoms: Patients may present with a variety of symptoms, such as:
- Bronze skin: A characteristic skin discoloration due to iron deposition.
- Diabetes: Resulting from pancreatic damage.
- Joint and abdominal pain: Caused by iron accumulation and organ involvement.
- Fatigue and weakness: Common nonspecific symptoms.
- Impotence: Endocrine dysfunction can lead to reproductive issues.
It’s crucial to recognize that women may experience a delayed onset or less severe disease progression due to iron loss through menstruation and pregnancy, as well as generally lower dietary iron intake.
Understanding Code Annotations and Back-References
Within the ICD-10-CM system, codes like E83.110 are often linked to annotations. These annotations provide additional context and instructions for coders. “Annotation back-references” mean that other codes in the ICD-10-CM system contain annotations that refer back to E83.110. These annotations can be:
- Applicable To: As discussed earlier, listing conditions included under the code.
- Code Also: Indicating that another code should be used in conjunction with E83.110 to fully describe the patient’s condition.
- Code First: Directing that a different code should be sequenced before E83.110 if certain conditions are present.
- Excludes1 & Excludes2: Defining conditions that are either mutually exclusive with E83.110 (Excludes1) or not typically coded together but could co-exist (Excludes2).
- Includes: Listing conditions specifically included within the code category.
- Note: Providing additional guidance or clarification.
- Use Additional: Instructing to use an additional code to provide further detail.
These annotations ensure accurate and comprehensive coding by guiding users to related and relevant information within the ICD-10-CM system.
Historical Context and Code Evolution
The Code History of E83.110 is straightforward. It was introduced as a new code in 2016, effective from October 1, 2015, and has remained unchanged through the 2025 edition. This stability indicates that E83.110 is a well-established and consistently used code within the ICD-10-CM framework.
Furthermore, understanding the codes Adjacent To E83.110 in the ICD-10-CM manual provides broader context. These surrounding codes relate to other disorders of mineral metabolism (E83), disorders of iron metabolism (E83.1), and other types of hemochromatosis (E83.111, E83.118, E83.119). This placement helps to categorize and differentiate Hereditary Hemochromatosis from related conditions.
Conclusion
Diagnosis code E83.110 is the specific and billable code for Hereditary Hemochromatosis within the ICD-10-CM system. Understanding this code, its associated clinical information, and its place within the broader ICD-10-CM structure is essential for healthcare professionals, coders, and anyone involved in medical documentation and billing. Accurate coding ensures proper reimbursement, facilitates epidemiological tracking, and ultimately contributes to better patient care and data analysis related to Hereditary Hemochromatosis.
