ICD-10 Code D53.0 – Protein deficiency anemia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code D53.0 – Protein deficiency anemia
What it is
D53.0 identifies anemia caused by inadequate protein intake or protein deficiency. Use it when the record states protein deficiency anemia or clearly links anemia to poor protein nutrition.
Clinical signs
Patients may show general anemia findings such as fatigue, weakness, pallor, and reduced exercise tolerance. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the documented cause and supporting findings.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents protein deficiency anemia as the diagnosis, or when the anemia is explicitly attributed to protein deficiency. It may also fit malnutrition-related anemia if the note specifies protein deficiency rather than another nutritional cause. Check documentation when the cause is not clearly stated.
Do not use for
Do not use D53.0 for anemia due to iron, folate, vitamin B12, blood loss, or chronic disease. If the chart does not clearly connect the anemia to protein deficiency, code the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Assign D53.0 only when protein deficiency is documented as the cause of the anemia.