D52.1
Drug-induced folate deficiency anemia
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Use Additional Code
- code for adverse effect, if applicable, to identify drug (T36-T50 with fifth or sixth character 5)
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Drug-induced folate deficiency anemia is a type of anemia caused by certain medications that interfere with the body's ability to absorb or utilize folate, an essential B-vitamin. Folate is crucial for the production of healthy red blood cells. When its levels are low, it can lead to anemia, a condition characterized by a reduced number of red blood cells, which are vital for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Use of certain medications such as methotrexate, anticonvulsants, or antibiotics that interfere with folate metabolism Prolonged use of drugs that impair intestinal absorption of folate High doses of drugs that increase folate requirement or cause increased folate excretion
Key Symptoms: Fatigue and weakness Pale skin or pallor Shortness of breath Dizziness or lightheadedness Sore tongue or mouth ulcers Difficulty concentrating Heart palpitations
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves blood tests that reveal low levels of folate and a decreased number of red blood cells. A complete blood count (CBC) can show anemia, while specific tests measure folate levels in the blood. Healthcare providers may review medication history to identify potential drug-induced causes.
Treatment Protocols: Management typically includes stopping or adjusting the medication responsible for the deficiency, if possible. Supplementation with folic acid is often prescribed to restore normal folate levels and support healthy red blood cell production. Addressing the underlying cause and regular monitoring are important for recovery.
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is D52.1 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, D52.1 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report D52.1?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Drug-induced folate deficiency anemia and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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