CKD (Chronic Kidney Disease) ICD-10-CM Codes

A comprehensive guide for ICD-10-CM codes used to diagnose Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD). Detailed insights on billable codes, clinical info, and more.

By Karina Jimenea on Aug 8, 2025.

Fact Checked by RJ Gumban.

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What ICD-10 Codes Are Used for CKD?

Recognizing the correct CKD ICD codes is fundamental for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Here are some frequently used codes:

N18.1: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) Stage 1: This code represents patients with slight kidney damage with normal or relatively high GFR.
N18.2: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) Stage 2: Used for patients having a mildly reduced GFR with kidney damage.
N18.3: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) Stage 3: This code applies to patients with a moderately reduced GFR.
N18.4: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) Stage 4: This code is used for patients with severely reduced GFR.
N18.5: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) Stage 5: Code for patients with very severe or end-stage renal disease.

Which CKD ICD Codes Are Billable?

Understanding which CKD ICD codes are billable can play a significant role in effective medical billing:

N18.1: Yes, billable. Represents patients diagnosed with CKD Stage 1.
N18.2: Yes, billable. Used when CKD Stage 2 is diagnosed.
N18.3: Yes, billable. Applicable for patients with CKD Stage 3.
N18.4: Yes, billable. Used when the patient is in CKD Stage 4.
N18.5: Yes, billable. This code applies when the patient is CKD Stage 5 or end-stage renal disease.

Clinical Information

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a long-term condition where the kidneys do not work effectively:

CKD is characterized by a gradual loss of kidney function over time.
The disease is usually silent in the early stages and is often discovered accidentally during routine health checkups.
Diabetes and high blood pressure are two primary causes of CKD.
Typical symptoms (usually in advanced stages) include fatigue, swollen feet or hands, shortness of breath, and frequent urination.
The primary goal of treatment is to prevent or slow down the progression of the disease and reduce complications.

Synonyms Include:

Chronic renal disease
Renal Insufficiency, chronic
Chronic renal failure
Kidney failure, chronic

Commonly asked questions

CKD, or Chronic Kidney Disease, is a long-term condition where the kidneys are not working as well as they should. It's a progressive disease that often goes unnoticed until the advanced stages.

Symptoms of CKD are typically not noticeable in the early stages. In the advanced stages, symptoms can include fatigue, swollen feet or hands, shortness of breath, and frequent urination.

The two primary causes of CKD are diabetes and high blood pressure, responsible for up to two-thirds of the cases. Other conditions that affect the kidneys can also cause CKD.

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