Top 10 ICD-10 Codes for Hyperlipidemia – A Comprehensive Guide for Accurate Diagnosis

Q: Is dyslipidemia the same as hyperlipidemia?

They are often used interchangeably. Both are coded under E78.5 unless specified.

Understanding the hyperlipidemia ICD 10 code system isn’t just for coders it’s crucial for physicians, billers, and healthcare teams alike. Accurate coding directly impacts reimbursement, care plans, and long-term outcomes, especially with chronic diseases like hyperlipidemia. In this guide, we break down not just the primary code for hyperlipidemia, but also cover related conditions like hypothyroidism, prediabetes, and mixed lipid disorders.

This post is based on real-world experience and includes insights from medical billing professionals and clinicians who work with these codes daily.

What Is Hyperlipidemia?

Hyperlipidemia refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, such as cholesterol and triglycerides. Left unprocessed, it can central to serious cardiovascular diseases.

Primary Hyperlipidemia ICD 10 Code - E78.0

This code refers to pure hypercholesterolemia and is commonly used when no secondary cause (like diabetes or hypothyroidism) is known.

Most providers use this code during routine lipid panel checkups for patients without complex comorbidities.

Mixed Hyperlipidemia ICD 10 Code - E78.2

Applicable in cases where both cholesterol and triglyceride levels are above normal.
This condition needs a combination treatment approach and frequent follow-ups.

Hypertriglyceridemia ICD 10 Code - E78.1

When triglycerides are the primary issue, this is your go-to code.
Often linked to high-carb diets, alcohol use, or genetics.

Familial Hyperlipidemia ICD 10 Code - E78.01

When hyperlipidemia runs in families, this code helps document the genetic risk factor.
Important for preventive treatment decisions.

History of Hyperlipidemia ICD 10 Code - Z86.39

Use this if the patient previously had hyperlipidemia but is now in remission or under control.
Ideal for documenting patient progress.

Family Past of Hyperlipidemia ICD 10 Code - Z83.42

If a close relative has a history, use this code to highlight inherited risk and guide screening efforts.

Screening for Hyperlipidemia ICD 10 Code - Z13.220

For preventive blood tests, this code justifies routine cholesterol screening under insurance plans.

Hyperlipidemia Associated With Diabetes (E11.69)

This falls under Type 2 Diabetes with Other Specified Complications.
Crucial for managing dual diagnoses and ensuring proper billing.

Hyperlipidemia Associated With Hypothyroidism

While there isn’t a direct combination code, use:

E03.9 for Hypothyroidism, unspecified
E78.5 for Hyperlipidemia, unspecified

Clinically, these often go hand-in-hand, and coders must document both.

Commonly Paired ICD-10 Codes

Condition	ICD-10 Code
Obesity	E66.9
GERD	K21.9
Prediabetes	R73.03
Hypertension	I10
Dyslipidemia Unspecified	E78.5 (same as hyperlipidemia unspecified)

Real-World Application - A Case Study

A 52-year-old male presents with important cholesterol, a BMI of 31, and Type 2 Diabetes. The appropriate ICD-10 codes might include:

E78.2 (Mixed Hyperlipidemia)
E11.69 (Diabetes with other complications)
E66.9 (Obesity)
Z13.220 (Screening for lipid disorder if applicable)

Accurate coding ensures that claims are processed smoothly, preventive screenings are reimbursed, and chronic disease management is documented thoroughly.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the hyperlipidemia ICD 10 code structure isn’t just about coding correctly it’s about optimizing patient care, improving billing accuracy, and ensuring continuity of care for chronic conditions.

When codes like E78.2, E78.5, or Z13.220 are used appropriately, everyone wins from the patient to the payer.

Ready to Simplify you’re Coding Process? Correct ICD-10 coding boosts reimbursement and patient outcomes. Whether you’re a clinic, hospital, or solo provider, Express Medical Billing can help.