Wiki Diabetes and leg ulcers

[Peggy62]

I was recently told that I should assume a causal relationship between leg ulcers and diabetes when both are present but no other cause for the leg ulcer is stated. I've always thought that the rule for assuming a causal relationship was only applied to foot ulcers. Can anyone help? I'm training a new coder and want to make sure I give them accurate information.

 

[LuckyLily]

Foot ulcer is the only one you can assume the relationship with DM. The provider has to link the DM with the leg ulcer, since it is a NEC.

 

[Peggy62]

THANK YOU!! Again, received incorrect information from a webinar.

 

[LisaAlonso23]

You may presume a relationship for all the conditions listed under DM2 in the ICD-10 index per my auditors. So, what you were told is correct, and you should presume a relationship between the leg ulcer and DM2.

 

[Peggy62]

Thanks for taking the time to respond. I see where the alpha index does lead you there.