Home / Hypothyroidism ICD 10
Hypothyroidism remains one of the most frequently encountered endocrinology disorders. Accurate coding is not just for billing—it’s essential for epidemiology, patient safety, and continuity of care. Unspecified Hypothyroidism ICD 10 is E03.9 (billable), whereas the Other specified hypothyroidism ICD 10 code is E03.8 (billable).
Along the way, this blog discusses ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification) codes for hypothyroidism (E03.x), their clinical background, and how to apply them.
Following can help you understand the reasons, causes, symptoms, and effects of hypothyroidism on an individual:
Thyroid function tests (TFTs) are the primary method for diagnosing hypothyroidism. The increased TSH with low Free T4 is the hallmark.
Imaging (Ultrasound or scintigraphy) may be used after diagnosis through TFTs. These imaging technologies help investigate the cause of abnormal thyroid function or assess for structural abnormalities.
Antibodies (Anti-TPO or anti-thyroglobulin) help diagnose autoimmune hypothyroidism, known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Treatment universally relies on thyroid hormone replacement therapy—primarily Levothyroxine (available only on prescription).
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This table helps hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, and HIPAA-covered entities needing ICD-10 codes:
ICD-10 Code | Condition | When to Use | Clinical Notes |
E03.0 | Congenital hypothyroidism that is with diffused goitre | Newborn with thyroid enlargement due to dyshormonogenesis. | Requires prompt treatment to avoid neurocognitive impairment. |
E03.1 | Congenital hypothyroidism without goiter | Congenital thyroid aplasia, hypoplasia, or ectopia. | Detected on newborn screening ((highlighted by NIH). |
E03.2 | Hypothyroidism caused due to medicaments/exogenous substances | Drug-related (e.g., lithium, amiodarone, interferon). | Document medication history. Often reversible if the drug is stopped. |
E03.3 | Postinfectious hypothyroidism | Sequela after subacute thyroiditis. | Often transient; requires follow-up TFTs. |
E03.4 | Atrophy of the thyroid (acquired) | End-stage Hashimoto’s thyroiditis with gland shrinkage. | Commonest acquired hypothyroidism in adults. |
E03.5 | Myxedema coma | Emergency—severe decompensated hypothyroidism. | Admit to ICU, IV Levothyroxine, hydrocortisone, supportive care. |
E03.8 | Other specified hypothyroidism | Specific variants not elsewhere classified. | Use only if documentation clearly specifies a rare etiology. |
E03.9 | Hypothyroidism, unspecified | Diagnosis present but etiology undocumented. | Common in outpatient coding when data is limited. |
Pro Tip: Only use E03.9 (unspecified) when absolutely necessary. Insurers and auditors prefer specificity (e.g., E03.2 vs. E03.9).
The following are the signs and patterns of hypothyroidism types:
Type | Clinical Presentation |
Congenital with diffuse goiter (E03.0) | Large neck mass, neonatal jaundice, hypotonia, and developmental delay if untreated. |
Congenital without goiter (E03.1) | Poor feeding, lethargy, puffy face, hoarse cry, no gland enlargement. |
Drug-induced (E03.2) | Fatigue, weight gain, history of lithium/amiodarone use. |
Postinfectious (E03.3) | Transition from painful thyroiditis → hypothyroid phase → sometimes recovery. |
Atrophic acquired (E03.4) | Middle-aged woman, slow metabolic decline, goiter shrinking over time. |
Myxedema coma (E03.5) | Hypothermia, bradycardia, altered mental status, puffy edema—medical emergency. |
Other specified (E03.8) | Rare forms like central hypothyroidism due to unusual causes. |
Unspecified (E03.9) | Documentation notes “hypothyroidism” but no etiology provided. |
Depending on the condition, just like any other disease or condition, Hypothyroidism has multiple codes. Among these codes there is an ‘unspecific hypothyroidism ICD-10 code’, E03.9. Try to use this code when really applicable; otherwise, always mention specific code. Always anchor your choice in the clinical documentation (TFTs, history, etiology).
Remember: Coding precision not only ensures compliance but also supports better patient care.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical, legal, or professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, errors or omissions may occur.
