Navigating the complexities of medical diagnosis coding requires a clear understanding of each specific code and its implications. Diagnosis Code R350, officially recognized as Frequency of Micturition within the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM), is a vital code for medical professionals. This article delves into the specifics of diagnosis code r350, providing a comprehensive overview for healthcare providers, coders, and anyone seeking to understand this important diagnostic classification.
What is Diagnosis Code R350?
Diagnosis code r350, or R35.0 in its standard format, 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 billing and signifies a definitive diagnosis. The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM, which became effective on October 1, 2024, continues to list R35.0, indicating its ongoing relevance in medical classifications. It’s important to note that while R35.0 is the American ICD-10-CM version, international versions of ICD-10 R35.0 might have variations. When using diagnosis code r350, ensure you are referencing the correct version for your region and purpose.
Clinical Context and Synonyms for R350
Understanding the clinical context of diagnosis code r350 is crucial for accurate application. R35.0, Frequency of Micturition, refers to the condition of needing to urinate more often than usual. This symptom can be associated with various underlying conditions. Several approximate synonyms are used interchangeably with diagnosis code r350 to describe this condition, including:
- Increased frequency of urination
- Urinary frequency
- Urinary frequency due to benign prostatic hypertrophy (enlarged prostate)
- Urinary frequency in pregnancy
Clinically, diagnosis code r350 describes urination occurring at short intervals. This can be triggered by several factors, such as increased urine production, reduced bladder capacity, or irritation within the lower urinary tract. It is essential for healthcare providers to investigate the underlying cause of urinary frequency to provide appropriate treatment.
ICD-10-CM Annotations and Code History of R350
Within the ICD-10-CM system, diagnosis code r350 is part of a broader network of codes, indicated by annotation back-references. These back-references point to codes that include various annotations relevant to R35.0. These annotations can be:
- Applicable To annotations
- Code Also annotations
- Code First annotations
- Excludes1 annotations
- Excludes2 annotations
- Includes annotations
- Note annotations
- Use Additional annotations
These annotations provide further guidance and context when using diagnosis code r350, ensuring accurate and comprehensive coding practices.
Looking at the code history, diagnosis code r350 is a relatively recent addition to the ICD-10-CM. It was introduced in 2016, effective from October 1, 2015, marking the first year it was officially part of the non-draft ICD-10-CM. Since its introduction, diagnosis code r350 has remained unchanged through the 2025 edition, affirming its established place in the diagnostic coding system.
Related ICD-10-CM Codes to R350
Diagnosis code r350 is situated within a group of related codes in the ICD-10-CM, specifically under R35 (Polyuria) and within the broader category of R30-R39 (Symptoms and signs involving the urinary system). Codes adjacent to R35.0 provide a fuller picture of urinary symptoms and conditions:
- R31.21 Asymptomatic microscopic hematuria
- R31.29 Other microscopic hematuria
- R31.9 Hematuria, unspecified
- R32 Unspecified urinary incontinence
- R33 Retention of urine
- R34 Anuria and oliguria
- R35 Polyuria (Parent category for R35.0)
- R35.1 Nocturia
- R35.8 Other polyuria
Understanding the codes surrounding diagnosis code r350 helps in differentiating and accurately coding various urinary symptoms and conditions.
Conclusion
Diagnosis code r350, Frequency of Micturition, is a specific and billable code within the ICD-10-CM system, essential for coding and reimbursement related to increased urinary frequency. Its clinical synonyms, annotation back-references, and code history provide a comprehensive understanding for medical coding professionals. Accurate use of diagnosis code r350, alongside related codes, ensures precise medical documentation and effective healthcare billing practices. For services rendered on or after October 1, 2015, the use of ICD-10-CM codes, including R35.0, is mandatory for reimbursement claims.
