ICD Code B18.1

ICD code B18.1 is used to identify chronic viral hepatitis B without the presence of a delta-agent. This code is applied when a patient has a long-term infection with the hepatitis B virus, but there is no co-infection with the hepatitis D virus, also known as the delta-agent. Chronic hepatitis B can lead to liver damage over time, and this specific code helps healthcare providers and billing professionals accurately document and manage the condition for treatment and reimbursement purposes.

When using the ICD code for chronic viral hepatitis B without delta-agent, consider the following diagnostic criteria and symptoms:

1. Positive Hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg) Test: The patient must have a positive test for HBsAg, indicating the presence of hepatitis B virus in the bloodstream for more than six months.

2. Absence of Delta-Agent (Hepatitis D Virus): Ensure that there is no co-infection with the hepatitis D virus, as this would require a different coding.

3. Elevated Liver Enzymes: Persistent elevation of liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), which may indicate ongoing liver inflammation.

4. Liver Biopsy Findings: If performed, liver biopsy results should show chronic hepatitis with or without fibrosis, but without the presence of delta-agent.

5. Chronic Symptoms: The patient may exhibit symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, or joint pain, although some patients may be asymptomatic.

6. Serological Markers: Presence of other serological markers such as Hepatitis B e Antigen (HBeAg) or antibodies to Hepatitis B core antigen (anti-HBc) that support chronic infection status.

7. Medical History: A documented history of hepatitis B infection that has persisted for at least six months, distinguishing it from acute hepatitis B.

8. Imaging Studies: Imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI may show signs of chronic liver disease, such as hepatomegaly or cirrhosis, without evidence of delta-agent involvement.

By ensuring these criteria are met, healthcare providers can accurately use the ICD code for chronic viral hepatitis B without delta-agent in their documentation and billing processes.

For the ICD code B18.1, which pertains to chronic viral hepatitis B without delta-agent, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment and management include:

1. CPT 99201-99215: These codes cover office or other outpatient visits for evaluation and management services. The specific code within this range would depend on the complexity and time spent during the visit.

2. CPT 80076: This code is used for a hepatic function panel, which is often necessary for monitoring liver function in patients with chronic hepatitis B.

3. CPT 86704: This code is for the hepatitis B core antibody test, which may be used to assess the presence of hepatitis B infection.

4. CPT 87340: This code is for the hepatitis B surface antigen test, which is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring hepatitis B infection.

5. CPT 87517: This code is used for hepatitis B virus DNA quantification, a test that measures the amount of hepatitis B virus in the blood, helping to assess the severity of the infection and response to treatment.

6. CPT 90739: This code is for the hepatitis B vaccine, which may be administered to prevent hepatitis B infection in susceptible individuals.

7. CPT 96372: This code is for the administration of a therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic injection, which may be relevant if medications are administered via injection.

These CPT codes are commonly associated with the management and treatment of chronic hepatitis B and should be selected based on the specific services provided to the patient. Always ensure that the chosen CPT codes align with the services rendered and the documentation in the patient's medical record.

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