N19: ICD10 Code for Unspecified kidney failure

N19 refers to Unspecified kidney failure, covering both sudden and progressive loss of kidney function, ranging from reversible acute conditions to permanent chronic kidney disease requiring lifelong management or renal replacement therapy.

Symptoms

Decreased urine output – Hallmark of acute kidney failure (N17)
Swelling in legs, ankles, or face – Due to fluid retention in CKD (N18)
Fatigue and weakness – Resulting from toxin buildup in blood
Shortness of breath – Due to fluid overload
Confusion or seizures – Severe complication of kidney failure

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Unspecified kidney failure includes blood tests (serum creatinine, BUN, electrolytes), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) measurement, urinalysis, imaging (renal ultrasound or CT), and sometimes kidney biopsy to determine the underlying cause.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code N19 is critical for documentation by nephrologists, intensivists, hospitalists, and internists to manage acute kidney injuries, monitor progression of chronic kidney disease stages, and appropriately plan dialysis or transplant interventions.

Related Codes

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code N19?
A: It refers to Unspecified kidney failure, encompassing the spectrum of kidney failure from sudden-onset acute injuries to long-term progressive chronic disease.

Q2: How is acute kidney failure (N17) different from CKD (N18)?
A: Acute kidney failure develops rapidly and may be reversible with prompt treatment, while CKD progresses slowly and often leads to permanent renal damage.

Q3: How is unspecified kidney failure (N19) used?
A: N19 is used when clinical data confirms kidney failure but the exact type (acute vs chronic) is not clearly documented or distinguishable at the time.

Q4: What are common causes of kidney failure?
A: Causes include diabetes, hypertension, sepsis, dehydration, toxins, autoimmune diseases, and urinary obstructions.

Q5: How is kidney failure managed?
A: Management includes addressing underlying causes, fluid and electrolyte balance, dialysis initiation when indicated, and preparation for kidney transplantation in end-stage cases.

Conclusion

ICD10 code N19 supports timely recognition, classification, and management of Unspecified kidney failure, promoting improved patient outcomes through early intervention, progression monitoring, and renal support therapies.