Elevated Creatinine ICD-10 Code: R79.89
Last updated: January 31, 2025
The ICD-10 code for elevated creatinine is R79.89 (Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry). Use this code for isolated lab findings of elevated creatinine when CKD has not been diagnosed.
Primary Code Details
| Code | Description | Billable |
|---|---|---|
| R79.89 | Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry | Yes |
Related Codes
Documentation Requirements
- Document the specific creatinine level and reference range
- Note if this is a new finding or chronic elevation
- Document any workup performed to evaluate kidney function
- If CKD is established, code the specific stage instead of R79.89
Common Coding Scenarios
Documentation:
"Lab results show creatinine 1.5 mg/dL (reference 0.7-1.3). No prior history of kidney disease. Ordering additional workup."
Code:
R79.89 - Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry
Rationale:
Use R79.89 for isolated lab abnormality before CKD diagnosis is established.
Documentation:
"Patient with CKD stage 3, creatinine elevated at 2.1 mg/dL."
Code:
N18.3 - Chronic kidney disease, stage 3
Rationale:
When CKD is established, code the CKD stage rather than the lab finding. The elevated creatinine is inherent to the CKD diagnosis.
Frequently Asked Questions
R79.89 (Other specified abnormal findings of blood chemistry) is used for elevated creatinine as an isolated lab finding. If CKD is diagnosed, use the appropriate N18 stage code instead.
Use R79.89 when elevated creatinine is an incidental finding without an established CKD diagnosis. Once CKD is diagnosed and staged, use the appropriate N18.x code.
Yes, R79.89 can be used for other abnormal blood chemistry findings including elevated BUN. Document the specific abnormality in the clinical record.
Related Resources
Last updated: January 2025. Code data reflects ICD-10-CM 2026 version. This guide is for educational purposes only. Always verify codes against current official guidelines.