ICD-11 Codes
for MA10.0 - Elevation of levels of transaminase or lactic acid dehydrogenase

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Elevated Transaminase and LDH Levels

The ICD-11 code MA10.0 refers to the elevation of levels of transaminase or lactic acid dehydrogenase (LDH) in the blood. These enzymes are primarily found in the liver and heart muscle, but also in other tissues like skeletal muscle, kidneys, and brain. Elevated levels detected through blood tests can indicate damage or disease affecting these organs or tissues. This finding is often an indicator that further investigation is required to determine the underlying cause.

How Elevated Serum Enzymes Are Diagnosed

The diagnosis of elevated transaminase and LDH levels is primarily made through laboratory blood tests. When a healthcare provider suspects a condition affecting the liver, heart, or muscles, they may order a panel of blood tests that includes measurements of these enzymes. The specific levels, along with other clinical findings and patient history, help in identifying potential issues. Further diagnostic steps may include imaging studies or more specific blood work to pinpoint the exact cause of the enzyme elevation.

Common Causes of Increased Transaminase and LDH Levels

Several factors can lead to an increase in transaminase and LDH levels. Common causes include:

• Liver conditions such as hepatitis (viral or autoimmune), cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and liver damage from toxins or medications.
• Muscle injury or disease, including strenuous exercise, trauma, muscular dystrophy, or rhabdomyolysis.
• Heart conditions, particularly myocardial infarction (heart attack), where LDH levels can rise.
• Other conditions like haemolytic anaemia, certain infections, and some cancers.
• Certain medications can also affect enzyme levels.

Symptoms Associated with Elevated Enzyme Levels

Often, an elevation in transaminase or LDH levels may not present with specific symptoms and is discovered incidentally during routine blood work. However, when symptoms do occur, they are typically related to the underlying cause. These can include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Abdominal pain or discomfort, particularly in the upper right quadrant (if liver-related)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Swelling in the legs or abdomen
• Muscle pain or tenderness
• Shortness of breath or chest pain (if heart-related)

It is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation if any of these symptoms are present.

Treatment Considerations for Abnormal Enzyme Readings

Treatment for elevated transaminase and LDH levels focuses on addressing the underlying cause. There is no direct treatment for the elevated enzyme levels themselves; rather, management strategies target the specific condition identified by the diagnostic process. This might involve:

• Medications to treat liver inflammation or disease.
• Lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes or reducing alcohol intake.
• Rest and physical therapy for muscle injuries.
• Specific treatments for cardiac events or other systemic illnesses.
• Adjusting or discontinuing medications that may be contributing to the enzyme elevation.

Close monitoring through follow-up blood tests is often necessary to assess the effectiveness of treatment and the resolution of enzyme elevations.

ICD-11 Coding for MA10.0: Elevation of levels of transaminase or lactic acid dehydrogenase

The ICD-11 code MA10.0 is used to classify the finding of elevated levels of transaminase or lactic acid dehydrogenase. This code is valuable for medical billing and documentation, providing a specific identifier for this laboratory finding. When documenting this condition, healthcare providers should ensure that the underlying cause is also identified and coded appropriately to provide a complete clinical picture. This code is reportable and billable when it represents a significant clinical finding requiring investigation or management.