The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) is a crucial tool in medical diagnosis coding and billing. Within this system, code D59.31 holds specific significance for healthcare professionals. This code is designated for Infection-associated hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS), a serious condition often linked to specific bacterial infections.
Understanding ICD-10 Code D59.31
D59.31 is a billable and specific ICD-10-CM code. This means it is precise enough to be used for diagnosis and reimbursement purposes in medical billing. The code officially came into effect on October 1, 2024, for the 2025 ICD-10-CM edition, though it was new already in 2023. It’s important to note that this is the American version (ICD-10-CM); international versions of ICD-10 might differ.
Applicable Conditions for D59.31
The code D59.31 is specifically applicable to:
- Shiga toxin-producing E. coli [STEC] related hemolytic uremic syndrome: This is the most common association. STEC bacteria, like E. coli O157:H7, produce Shiga toxins that can lead to HUS.
- Typical hemolytic uremic syndrome: This term is often used interchangeably with STEC-HUS, as the ‘typical’ form of HUS is frequently caused by Shiga toxin-producing E. coli.
Coding Guidelines and Sequencing
ICD-10-CM coding often involves understanding sequencing rules, especially when dealing with conditions that have both an underlying cause (etiology) and manifestations in the body. For D59.31, it falls under the category where a “use additional code” note might be present at the etiology code (the infection causing HUS), and a “code first” note at the manifestation code (HUS itself).
This guideline indicates the correct coding order: first, code the underlying condition (the infection), and then use D59.31 to specify the infection-associated hemolytic-uremic syndrome. Codes like D59.31, which are manifestation codes, should never be used as the primary or first-listed diagnosis. They always require being paired with and following the code for the underlying cause.
Context within ICD-10-CM
D59.31 is part of a broader category within ICD-10-CM, situated amongst related codes such as:
- D59.3 Hemolytic-uremic syndrome: This is the parent category.
- D59.30 Hemolytic-uremic syndrome, unspecified: Used when the specific type of HUS is not identified.
- D59.32 Hereditary hemolytic-uremic syndrome: For genetically linked HUS.
- D59.39 Other hemolytic-uremic syndrome: For HUS not classified elsewhere.
Understanding D59.31 and its place within the ICD-10-CM system is essential for accurate medical coding, ensuring appropriate reimbursement, and contributing to valuable health data collection. For cases of hemolytic uremic syndrome linked to STEC infections, D59.31 is the precise code to utilize.
