ICD-10 Code E72.23 – Citrullinemia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E72.23 – Citrullinemia
What it is
E72.23 identifies citrullinemia, an inherited disorder of the urea cycle that impairs the body’s ability to process ammonia. Use it when documentation names citrullinemia or a specific citrulline-related urea cycle defect.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly reported findings include hyperammonemia, poor feeding, vomiting, lethargy, and neurologic decline, especially in infants or during metabolic stress.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents citrullinemia as the confirmed diagnosis, including newborn screening follow-up or specialist evaluation. It also fits encounters for known disease management, genetic counseling, or metabolic decompensation tied to this disorder. If the record only says elevated citrulline, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use E72.23 for nonspecific hyperammonemia, liver failure, or other urea cycle disorders unless citrullinemia is documented. If the diagnosis is uncertain, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code the confirmed inherited disorder, not just an abnormal lab result, and verify whether the note specifies citrullinemia versus another urea cycle defect.