ICD-10 Code D56.5 – Hemoglobin E-beta thalassemia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D56.5 – Hemoglobin E-beta thalassemia
What it is
D56.5 identifies hemoglobin E-beta thalassemia, an inherited hemoglobin disorder caused by abnormal hemoglobin E with beta-thalassemia. It can produce a range of anemia severity, from mild to transfusion-dependent disease.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include chronic anemia, fatigue, jaundice, splenomegaly, and growth delay in more severe cases.
When to use this code
Use D56.5 when the record specifically documents hemoglobin E-beta thalassemia or a confirmed Hb E/beta-thalassemia phenotype. It is appropriate for hereditary disease documentation, even when the note describes chronic anemia or hemolysis as associated findings. Check documentation if the subtype is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for isolated hemoglobin E trait or beta-thalassemia trait without the combined diagnosis. Also avoid it when the chart only says “thalassemia” or “anemia” without further specification.
Coding tip
Code the exact hemoglobinopathy named in the record; if only a general thalassemia is documented, query for specificity.