ICD-10 Code E54 – Ascorbic acid deficiency (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E54 – Ascorbic acid deficiency
What it is
E54 identifies a deficiency of ascorbic acid, also called vitamin C deficiency. Use it when documentation states scurvy or vitamin C deficiency as the diagnosed condition.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include fatigue, gum changes, easy bruising, poor wound healing, and other signs consistent with vitamin C deficiency.
When to use this code
Use E54 when the provider documents ascorbic acid deficiency, vitamin C deficiency, or scurvy as an active diagnosis. It is appropriate when the record supports a nutritional deficiency diagnosis rather than a nonspecific dietary concern. Check documentation if the chart only mentions low intake without a confirmed deficiency.
Do not use for
Do not use E54 for general malnutrition, unspecified vitamin deficiency, or dietary counseling alone. If the record does not clearly identify vitamin C deficiency, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code E54 only when the deficiency is explicitly documented or clearly established in the record.