ICD Code E87.21

ICD code E87.21 is a classification used to identify acute metabolic acidosis, a condition characterized by an excessive acid buildup in the body due to a rapid decrease in blood pH. This can result from various causes such as kidney failure, diabetic ketoacidosis, or severe dehydration, and requires prompt medical attention to address the underlying cause and restore the body's acid-base balance.

1. Presence of Low Blood pH: Confirmed through arterial blood gas analysis, indicating a pH level below 7.35.

2. Elevated Anion Gap: Laboratory tests showing an increased anion gap, typically greater than 12 mEq/L, suggesting an accumulation of acids in the blood.

3. Elevated Serum Lactate Levels: Blood tests revealing high levels of lactate, often above 2 mmol/L, indicating lactic acidosis as a potential cause.

4. Bicarbonate Deficiency: Serum bicarbonate levels are significantly reduced, usually below 22 mEq/L, contributing to the acid-base imbalance.

5. Presence of Underlying Conditions: Identification of conditions such as diabetic ketoacidosis, renal failure, or severe dehydration that can lead to acute metabolic acidosis.

6. Respiratory Compensation: Observation of compensatory hyperventilation (Kussmaul breathing) as the body attempts to expel CO2 to balance the pH.

7. Clinical Symptoms: Presentation of symptoms such as confusion, fatigue, headache, and rapid breathing, which are indicative of an acidotic state.

8. Exclusion of Other Causes: Rule out other potential causes of acidosis, such as respiratory acidosis or chronic metabolic acidosis, to confirm the acute nature of the condition.

For the ICD code E87.21 (Acute metabolic acidosis), the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment and management include:

1. 82947 - Glucose; quantitative, blood (except reagent strip)
2. 84132 - Potassium; serum, plasma, or whole blood
3. 84295 - Sodium; serum, plasma, or whole blood
4. 84520 - Urea nitrogen; quantitative
5. 80048 - Basic metabolic panel (Calcium, total)
6. 80053 - Comprehensive metabolic panel
7. 82803 - Blood gases; pH, pCO2, pO2, CO2, HCO3 (including calculated O2 saturation)
8. 96365 - Intravenous infusion, for therapy, prophylaxis, or diagnosis; initial, up to 1 hour

These CPT codes represent common laboratory tests and procedures that may be utilized in the evaluation and management of acute metabolic acidosis. It is important for healthcare providers to select the appropriate CPT codes based on the specific services rendered and the clinical context.

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