Advanced Search

Cardiology Coding Alert

You Be the Coder:

Apply Code to Elevated Creatine Kinase

Published on Thu Apr 14, 2011

Question: Which diagnosis code applies to "elevated creatine kinase"?New Mexico SubscriberAnswer: Nonspecific code 790.5 (Other nonspecific abnormal serum enzyme levels) is the most appropriate option for reporting these elevated creatine kinase levels.MI clue: Patients with myocardial infarction (MI) symptoms may have elevated enzyme levels, as well. Physicians may send patients with elevated levels to the catheterization lab to determine the presence of MI. Don't make assumptions, though. You shouldn't report an MI code (such as 410.xx, Acute myocardial infarction) unless the cardiologist documents that diagnosis.
You’ve reached your limit of free articles. Already a subscriber? Log in.
Not a subscriber? Subscribe today to continue reading this article. Plus, you’ll get:
  • Simple explanations of current healthcare regulations and payer programs
  • Real-world reporting scenarios solved by our expert coders
  • Industry news, such as MAC and RAC activities, the OIG Work Plan, and CERT reports
  • Instant access to every article ever published in your eNewsletter
  • 6 annual AAPC-approved CEUs*
  • The latest updates for CPT®, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, NCCI edits, modifiers, compliance, technology, practice management, and more
*CEUs available with select eNewsletters.

Other Articles in this issue of

Cardiology Coding Alert

View All