2025 ICD-10-CM code Q44.3
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Congenital malformations - Congenital malformations of gallbladder, bile ducts and liver Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-Q99) Feed
Congenital stenosis and stricture of bile ducts.
Medical necessity for procedures or treatments related to Q44.3 would be established by the presence of symptoms (jaundice, abdominal pain, cholangitis), abnormal liver function tests, and imaging evidence demonstrating biliary obstruction caused by stenosis or stricture.The severity of symptoms and potential for long-term liver damage will determine the need for intervention.
The clinical responsibility for diagnosing and managing congenital stenosis and stricture of bile ducts typically falls upon pediatric gastroenterologists, hepatologists, or pediatric surgeons.The management may involve surgical intervention (such as Kasai procedure or biliary reconstruction) in some cases, or medical management focusing on supportive care and managing complications.
- Congenital malformations, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities (Q00-Q99)
- Q44: Congenital malformations of gallbladder, bile ducts and liver
In simple words: This code describes a birth defect where the bile ducts, tubes that carry bile from the liver, are too narrow or blocked. This can cause problems with how the liver works and may lead to jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
This ICD-10-CM code classifies congenital stenosis and stricture of the bile ducts.It refers to a narrowing or constriction of the bile ducts present from birth. This condition can impede the flow of bile from the liver to the gallbladder and intestines, potentially causing jaundice, liver damage, and other complications. The diagnosis requires clinical evaluation, imaging studies (such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography), and potentially liver function tests.
Example 1: A newborn infant presents with jaundice, elevated liver enzymes, and abdominal distension.Ultrasound reveals biliary duct stenosis. Code Q44.3 is assigned., A child with a history of recurrent cholangitis and elevated bilirubin levels undergoes magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), revealing strictures in the bile ducts. Code Q44.3 is assigned., A teenager experiences progressive jaundice and abdominal pain, ultimately diagnosed with congenital bile duct stenosis through ERCP.Code Q44.3 is assigned.
Detailed clinical history, physical examination findings, relevant laboratory data (including liver function tests), and imaging studies (ultrasound, MRCP, ERCP as appropriate) are required to support the diagnosis and justify the use of Q44.3.
** Differential diagnosis should include other congenital biliary disorders such as biliary atresia, choledochal cysts, and Alagille syndrome.The clinical picture and imaging findings are critical in distinguishing these conditions.
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- Specialties:Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, Pediatric Surgery
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