ICD-10 Code D75.1 – Secondary Polycythemia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D75.1 – Secondary polycythemia
What it is
Secondary polycythemia is an increased red blood cell mass caused by an external factor, usually chronic low oxygen or excess erythropoietin. Use this code when the condition is documented as secondary rather than primary.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include facial redness, headache, dizziness, or symptoms related to the underlying cause, such as chronic lung disease or sleep-related hypoxia.
When to use this code
Use D75.1 when the provider documents secondary polycythemia, secondary erythrocytosis, or polycythemia due to another condition. It is appropriate when the chart links the elevated red cell mass to a known cause, such as hypoxia or a tumor producing erythropoietin. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for polycythemia vera, which is a primary myeloproliferative disorder. Avoid it when the record only shows an elevated hematocrit without a documented diagnosis; code the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Code the underlying cause first when documented, and use D75.1 only when the provider explicitly identifies secondary polycythemia.