An uncommon disorder, diabetes insipidus causes an imbalance of fluids in the body that leads to the production of large amounts of urine. A normal person makes 1 to 3 quarts of urine a day. However, people with this disorder can make up to 20 quarts of urine a day. They also feel extremely thirsty all the time and tend to consume lots of liquids (a condition called polydipsia). The exact causes of this disorder are unknown. In most cases, the condition occurs when any specific part of the body system that regulates fluid in the body breaks down. The condition is also closely associated with low levels of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin. ADH levels affect how well your kidneys conserve water.
Any conditions that result in a deficiency of ADH or block the effect of ADH results in the production of excess urine. Medical billing and coding for this disorder can be challenging. When it comes to reporting symptoms and diagnoses of different types of diabetes insipidus, healthcare providers can depend on medical billing outsourcing companies. Such companies will provide the services of skilled professionals who are well-versed in the coding and claim submission process.
Diabetes insipidus and Diabetes mellitus are not related. Diabetes mellitus which is related to high blood sugar levels is quite common and often referred to simply as diabetes. Diabetes insipidus can be of different types including central diabetes insipidus, nephrogenic diabetes insipidus, gestational diabetes insipidus and primary polydipsia. People of all age groups can develop diabetes insipidus.
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Symptoms of Diabetes Insipidus
The condition usually affects males, though women can pass the gene on to their children. Several factors such as genetics, usage of certain medications (that can cause kidney problems), metabolic disorders, and undergoing brain surgery or a major head injury can increase the risk of this condition. If left untreated, the condition can cause severe complications such as – dehydration, changes in skin elasticity, dry mouth, fatigue, loss of appetite, electrolyte imbalance and even death. Excessive thirst (polydipsia), excessive urine output and frequent urge to urinate (during the night) are some of the main symptoms of this condition. Other possible symptoms in infants and young children include – fussiness and irritability, dehydration, high fever, confusion, dizziness, dry skin and delayed growth.
ICD-10 Codes for Diabetes Insipidus
Diagnosis of this condition will begin with a detailed evaluation of the symptoms to determine which tests are essential. Tests performed include urine gravity test, water deprivation test, genetic testing and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Treatment options for this condition may depend on the type of diabetes insipidus a person has and the severity of symptoms. In mild cases, physicians may simply recommend patients to increase the intake of water. In other severe cases, physicians may recommend medications and hormone therapy.
ICD-10 code E23.2 denotes Diabetes insipidus. E23.2 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used on the medical claim to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. Other codes include –
- N25.1 Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus
The outlook for diabetes insipidus depends on the underlying causes of the condition. When treated properly, diabetes insipidus does not cause any severe or long-term complications. Incorporating lifestyle changes is vital to ensure successful treatment. Avoiding dehydration is one of the important aspects of lifestyle change. Patients with this condition need to carry water with them wherever they travel. Physicians will give detailed instructions on the total amount of fluids that a person should intake every day.
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Medical billing and coding for diabetes insipidus can be complex. Physicians who provide appropriate treatment for this disorder should also ensure that the medical coding for this condition is properly done on the medical claims. Medical billing and coding companies providing the services of AAPC-certified coding specialists can provide the right support for physicians to ensure accurate medical coding and claim submission to payers.
Holding a CPC certification from the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC), Natalie is a seasoned professional actively managing medical billing, medical coding, verification, and authorization services at OSI.