ICD-10 Code E83.81 – Hungry Bone Syndrome (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E83.81 – Hungry bone syndrome
What it is
Hungry bone syndrome is a state of rapid bone mineral uptake, usually after parathyroid surgery, that can cause prolonged low calcium and related mineral imbalance. Use this code when documentation names the syndrome specifically.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly noted findings include symptoms of hypocalcemia such as tingling, muscle cramps, or tetany, especially after a parathyroidectomy or other treatment that changes bone turnover.
When to use this code
Use E83.81 when the provider documents hungry bone syndrome as the diagnosis. It is appropriate when postoperative or post-treatment notes describe calcium being taken up into bone after correction of severe hyperparathyroidism or another high-turnover bone state.
If the chart only mentions hypocalcemia without naming hungry bone syndrome, code the documented condition instead. Check documentation for the underlying cause and whether the syndrome is stated explicitly.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unspecified hypocalcemia, postoperative calcium abnormalities, or general electrolyte disorders unless hungry bone syndrome is documented. Do not assume the diagnosis from surgery alone.
Coding tip
Code the syndrome only when the provider links the low calcium state to hungry bone syndrome in the record.