Pyelonephritis ICD-10-CM Codes

What are Pyelonephritis ICD-10-CM Codes?

Pyelonephritis is a severe kidney infection that stems from urinary tract infections (UTIs) and may involve inflammation of the renal pelvis and kidney tissue. Accurate documentation using ICD-10-CM codes ensures proper billing, treatment, and disease classification under conditions related to the genitourinary system. Pyelonephritis may be acute, chronic, obstructive, or associated with underlying disease.

Here are the standard pyelonephritis ICD-10 codes used in clinical practice:

• N10 – Acute pyelonephritis
• N11.0 – Nonobstructive reflux-associated chronic pyelonephritis N11.0
• N11.1 – Chronic obstructive pyelonephritis
• N12 – Tubulo-interstitial nephritis, not specified as acute or chronic
• N13.6 – Pyonephrosis

Which Pyelonephritis ICD-10-CM Codes are billable?

Yes, all codes listed are billable ICD-10-CM codes.

Clinical information

Pyelonephritis is a type of tubulo-interstitial nephritis that may present in acute or chronic forms. It typically arises from a urinary tract infection (UTI) that ascends to the kidneys. Chronic cases may be associated with conditions such as vesicoureteral reflux (reflux nephropathy), congenital obstructive abnormalities, or less common causes like nephritis related to hemoglobin or myoglobin deposition.

Clinically, pyelonephritis often manifests with flank or lower back pain, fever and chills, and urinary symptoms such as dysuria (painful urination), increased frequency, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine. These symptoms reflect both the local inflammation in the kidney and systemic signs of infection.

Diagnosis is typically guided by urinalysis, which helps identify the presence of an infection and the likely pathogen. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or CT scan, help evaluate for reflux nephropathy or obstructive uropathy. In cases that are chronic or diagnostically challenging, a renal biopsy may be necessary to assess the extent of damage or to exclude other potential causes.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity. Acute pyelonephritis is typically managed with antibiotics targeting the causative bacteria. Chronic or recurrent cases, especially those due to structural abnormalities, may require surgical correction of strictures or anatomical defects. In all cases, it is essential to manage any underlying conditions contributing to the infection.

If left untreated, pyelonephritis can lead to serious complications, including permanent kidney damage, chronic kidney disease, or systemic infection such as sepsis. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are essential to prevent long-term sequelae.

Synonyms include:

• Kidney infection
• Infection of renal pelvis
• Renal inflammation
• UTI of the kidney
• Kidney pyelitis