2025 ICD-10-CM code E27.40

Unspecified adrenocortical insufficiency is the underproduction of the adrenal hormone cortisol and sometimes aldosterone, without specifying a particular type.

Adhere to official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines. Use E27.40 only when the specific type of adrenocortical insufficiency is unknown.Consider using additional codes to specify associated conditions or complications.

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the context and services rendered. Consult the official modifier guidelines for clarification.

Medical necessity for E27.40 is established when clinical presentation and diagnostic findings indicate inadequate adrenal cortical hormone production, necessitating treatment and monitoring to prevent life-threatening complications. Specific payer requirements may need to be considered for authorization and reimbursement.

Diagnosis and management of adrenocortical insufficiency. This involves obtaining a thorough patient history, conducting a physical examination, ordering and interpreting laboratory tests (blood and urine), possibly utilizing imaging techniques (MRI, CT scan), and implementing appropriate treatment plans (hormone replacement, management of complications).Referral to specialists might be required for complex cases.

IMPORTANT E27.49 (Other adrenocortical insufficiency) should be used if a specific type of adrenocortical insufficiency can be identified.ICD-9-CM code 255.41 (Glucocorticoid deficiency) may be considered for approximate conversion, but clinical interpretation is necessary to select the most appropriate code.

In simple words: Unspecified adrenocortical insufficiency means the adrenal glands aren't making enough of the hormones cortisol and sometimes aldosterone.This can cause tiredness, weight loss, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, skin darkening, and other problems. Doctors diagnose it with blood tests and sometimes scans. Treatment usually involves taking hormone replacement medicine for life.

Unspecified adrenocortical insufficiency refers to the inadequate production of cortisol and, in some cases, aldosterone by the adrenal cortex.This diagnosis is applied when the specific type of adrenocortical insufficiency cannot be determined.The condition can manifest with symptoms such as fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, hypoglycemia, skin pigmentation changes, infertility, decreased libido, irritability, and changes in body hair distribution (especially in females). Diagnostic testing may include blood and urine tests to measure cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), and aldosterone levels. Imaging studies like MRI and CT scans can help identify adrenal gland abnormalities. Treatment approaches vary depending on the severity and underlying cause but may involve lifelong hormone replacement therapy to compensate for the insufficiency.Additional treatments may include fluid resuscitation, antibiotics (for infections), radiation therapy, chemotherapy (for cancer), and potentially surgical removal of tumors.

Example 1: A 35-year-old female presents with fatigue, weight loss, and hypotension.Laboratory tests reveal low cortisol levels and elevated ACTH, consistent with primary adrenocortical insufficiency.E27.40 is assigned because the underlying cause is not immediately apparent and requires further investigation., A 60-year-old male with a history of autoimmune disease shows symptoms of adrenocortical insufficiency.While the likely etiology is autoimmune adrenalitis, the specific type is not defined, hence E27.40 is used., A newborn displays signs of adrenal insufficiency, but the cause remains unclear after initial testing.E27.40 is assigned pending further diagnostic evaluation to determine if it is primary or secondary adrenocortical insufficiency or other condition.

Complete patient history including symptoms, medications, and past medical conditions. Results of laboratory tests (cortisol, ACTH, aldosterone, DHEAS). Imaging reports (MRI, CT scans if performed).Physician's assessment and diagnosis justifying the use of E27.40. Documentation supporting any treatment interventions initiated.

** The 7th character is not applicable to this code.Always cross-reference with other relevant codes to ensure accurate and complete billing.Keep detailed documentation to justify the use of this code and support any billing claims.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: Not applicable.
  • Specialties:Endocrinology, Internal Medicine
  • Place of Service:Office, Hospital (Inpatient and Outpatient), Emergency Room
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