ICD-10 Code E78.019 – Familial hypercholesterolemia, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E78.019 – Familial hypercholesterolemia, unspecified
What it is
E78.019 identifies familial hypercholesterolemia when the record does not specify the exact type. It refers to an inherited disorder that causes high cholesterol and should be coded from the documented diagnosis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly documented findings include a family history of early cardiovascular disease, markedly elevated cholesterol, or physical signs such as tendon xanthomas or corneal arcus.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents familial hypercholesterolemia but does not identify a more specific subtype. It also fits when the chart confirms the condition and no further detail is available.
Code from the clinician’s stated diagnosis, not from cholesterol results alone. If the note specifies heterozygous, homozygous, or another form, check documentation and select the more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for acquired hyperlipidemia, isolated high cholesterol, or screening results without a diagnosis. Check documentation if the record only says hyperlipidemia or elevated lipids.
Coding tip
Query the provider when familial hypercholesterolemia is mentioned without subtype detail, because a more specific code may apply.