ICD Code E78.0

ICD code E78.0 is a classification used to identify pure hypercholesterolemia, a condition characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol in the blood. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) system, which is used by healthcare providers to standardize diagnoses and facilitate billing and data collection. Pure hypercholesterolemia specifically refers to high cholesterol levels that are not associated with other lipid abnormalities, and it is often a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.

1. Elevated LDL Cholesterol Levels: Use the ICD code when laboratory tests indicate that the patient's low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels are above the normal range, typically considered to be 130 mg/dL or higher, depending on specific guidelines.

2. Family History of Hypercholesterolemia: Consider the ICD code if there is a documented family history of hypercholesterolemia or related cardiovascular diseases, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

3. Absence of Secondary Causes: Ensure that elevated cholesterol levels are not attributable to secondary causes such as hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, or certain medications. The diagnosis should be based on primary hypercholesterolemia.

4. Physical Examination Findings: Use the ICD code if physical examination reveals signs such as xanthomas or xanthelasmas, which are indicative of lipid disorders.

5. Risk Assessment for Cardiovascular Disease: Apply the ICD code when the patient is assessed to be at increased risk for cardiovascular diseases due to elevated cholesterol levels, even in the absence of current cardiovascular symptoms.

6. Persistent Hypercholesterolemia: The ICD code is appropriate when elevated cholesterol levels persist despite lifestyle modifications, such as diet and exercise, indicating a need for further medical intervention.

7. Screening and Monitoring: Utilize the ICD code for routine screening and monitoring of cholesterol levels in patients with risk factors for cardiovascular disease, even if they are asymptomatic.

By adhering to these criteria, healthcare providers can ensure accurate and consistent use of the ICD code in clinical documentation and billing processes.

For the ICD code E78.0 (Pure hypercholesterolemia), the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment and management include:

1. 80061 - Lipid panel (includes total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein [HDL] cholesterol, and triglycerides).

2. 82465 - Cholesterol, serum or whole blood, total.

3. 83718 - Lipoprotein, direct measurement, high-density cholesterol (HDL cholesterol).

4. 83721 - Lipoprotein, direct measurement, low-density cholesterol (LDL cholesterol).

5. 84478 - Triglycerides.

These CPT codes are typically used for diagnostic testing and monitoring of cholesterol levels in patients diagnosed with pure hypercholesterolemia. It's important for healthcare providers to ensure accurate coding to facilitate proper billing and reimbursement processes.

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