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Pulmonology Coding Alert

Reader Question:

Double Diagnosis

Published on Fri Feb 01, 2002

Question: How should I code for a patient who has emphysema and renal failure?

Virginia Subscriber
 
Answer: No single code combines both conditions. Code each condition separately. Emphysema is coded as 492.8 (other emphysema). Coding for the renal failure depends on whether it was acute or chronic. Acute renal failure is coded 584.5-584.9 (depending on the location of the renal lesion, if known), and chronic renal failure is 585. If acute or chronic is not specified, the correct code is 586 (renal failure, unspecified).
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