Abnormal Liver Enzymes ICD-10 Code: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help

Abnormal Liver Enzymes ICD 10 Code

5/5 - (1 vote)

Liver enzymes might sound complicated, but they’re actually a simple way for doctors to check on how your liver is doing. If you’ve heard the phrase “abnormal liver enzymes,” it means that the levels of certain chemicals in your liver are higher than usual. This can sometimes be a sign of a health issue, so understanding these enzymes and what could cause abnormal levels is essential.

To help make this easier, we’ll explain liver enzymes, why they’re important, the common causes of abnormal levels, and the specific ICD-10 codes doctors use to track these changes.

What Are Liver Enzymes?

Liver enzymes are proteins that assist in accelerating chemical reactions within the liver. Two of the most common liver enzymes are ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase). These enzymes play important roles, like breaking down food and filtering toxins.

When these enzyme levels are normal, it usually means your liver is working well. But when the levels are too high, doctors may say they are “abnormal,” which can be a sign that something is stressing your liver or that there might be an underlying health issue.s

Causes of Abnormal Liver Enzymes

abnormal liver enzyme

Liver enzymes can sometimes be higher than normal, and while this can sound concerning, it’s helpful to understand what could be causing it. 

Many factors, from infections to lifestyle habits, can put extra pressure on the liver and raise enzyme levels. For example, stress—a common yet often overlooked factor—can significantly impact liver health. Can stress cause elevated liver enzymes? Learn more about how stress may play a role alongside these other causes.

1. Infections (like hepatitis)

Infections, especially viral infections like hepatitis, can make your liver work a lot harder than usual. Hepatitis is a condition that causes inflammation in the liver, often because of a virus. 

When your liver becomes inflamed, it releases more enzymes into your bloodstream as it tries to protect and repair itself. In simple terms, it’s like your liver going into overdrive to fight off the virus, which is why enzyme levels go up. 

Other infections, such as mononucleosis (often called “mono”), can also affect liver enzymes.

2. Medications

Certain medications can cause liver enzymes to rise as a side effect. This doesn’t mean that these medications are harmful to everyone, but some people may be more sensitive to them. Drugs that can impact liver enzymes include:

  • Over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen (Tylenol). Even though it’s safe at the right dose, too much can be hard on the liver.
  • Cholesterol-lowering drugs, known as statins, can also sometimes stress the liver.
  • Some antibiotics and medications used to treat infections or chronic conditions may also cause this reaction.

If you’re on medications, your doctor might do regular blood tests to check your liver enzyme levels. This helps ensure that the medication isn’t affecting your liver in a way that could cause harm over time.

liver function test

3. Alcohol Use

The liver plays a central role in breaking down alcohol and removing it from your system. Drinking too much alcohol over a long period can strain your liver and lead to inflammation or even liver damage. 

This strain causes liver enzymes to rise as your liver works to repair and protect itself. For people who drink alcohol regularly, especially in larger amounts, enzyme levels can stay elevated over time, signaling that the liver is struggling to keep up.

4. Fatty Liver Disease

The accumulation of excess fat in the liver cells is the cause of fatty liver disease.  This extra fat can irritate the liver, leading to inflammation. Imagine your liver being surrounded by tiny fat droplets, which eventually start making it harder for the liver to do its job. There are two primary kinds of fatty liver disease:

  • Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): This type isn’t related to alcohol use and is often linked to obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
  • Alcoholic fatty liver disease: This occurs due to heavy alcohol consumption.

Both types cause liver enzymes to go up, signaling that the liver is stressed and inflamed.

5. Other Medical Conditions

Certain other health conditions can also put stress on the liver, affecting enzyme levels. Here are some examples:

  • Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk for liver issues, which can lead to elevated liver enzymes over time.
  • Obesity: Carrying extra weight can lead to fatty liver disease, which, as we discussed, raises liver enzymes.
  • Gallbladder disease: Since the gallbladder and liver are closely connected in how they help digest food, problems in the gallbladder can sometimes lead to changes in liver enzyme levels.

ICD-10 Codes for Abnormal Liver Enzymes

In healthcare, doctors use a standardized system called the ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition) to classify medical conditions. 

Think of these codes like a shorthand that helps healthcare providers and insurance companies quickly understand specific diagnoses. 

For example, if a doctor notices abnormal liver enzymes in a blood test, they’ll use an ICD-10 code to label it accurately in your medical records.

For abnormal liver enzymes, the most relevant codes are:

1. R74.0: Abnormal Serum Enzyme Levels

The code R74.0 is assigned when liver enzymes in your blood test come back higher than normal. In this case, “serum enzyme levels” just means the levels of certain enzymes that your liver releases into the bloodstream. 

Elevated levels of enzymes like ALT and AST could signal that the liver is stressed, inflamed, or working harder than usual. When doctors use R74.0, it indicates they’ve identified this enzyme irregularity and are monitoring it as a potential sign of liver stress or disease.

2. R94.5: Abnormal Liver Function Studies

The code R94.5 is used for a broader range of liver function abnormalities, not just enzyme levels. 

If a doctor orders tests that show several aspects of liver function are off, including bile production, blood proteins, or bilirubin levels, they may use R94.5 to capture this broader picture. 

This code is particularly helpful if a doctor needs to communicate with other specialists or track multiple areas of liver health over time.

Why Are These Codes Important?

Using ICD-10 codes like R74.0 and R94.5 allows doctors to record, monitor, and communicate health information consistently. If you need to see a specialist, the codes make it easier for them to understand your liver health history quickly. 

They also allow insurance companies to process claims correctly, ensuring your treatments and tests are covered according to your diagnosis.

By assigning these codes to specific conditions, your healthcare team can more easily track liver function trends over time, catching any changes early and ensuring the best possible care.

Symptoms of Abnormal Liver Enzyme Levels

So, what does it mean if liver enzymes are abnormal, and how might you feel? Let’s look at some common symptoms that can signal your liver might be under stress.

1. Jaundice (the yellowing of the skin and eyes)

One of the more visible signs of liver issues is jaundice. This happens when there’s a buildup of a yellow pigment called bilirubin in your bloodstream. 

Normally, the liver processes bilirubin, but if it’s not functioning well, bilirubin can accumulate, causing a yellow tint to the skin and eyes. 

If you notice yellowing, especially in the whites of your eyes, it’s wise to talk to a doctor, as it can be a clear sign your liver needs attention.

2. Fatigue (Feeling Unusually Tired or Weak)

Feeling constantly tired or weak can also be a sign of abnormal liver enzymes. The liver plays a big role in processing nutrients and detoxifying the body, so when it’s struggling, you may feel more worn out than usual. 

This tiredness isn’t the usual type from a long day; it can feel like a deeper, ongoing fatigue that doesn’t go away with rest.

3. Abdominal Pain (Particularly in the Upper Right Area)

The liver sits in the upper right area of your abdomen, just under your ribs. If there’s inflammation or stress in your liver, it can sometimes cause pain or discomfort in this area. 

Some people describe it as a dull ache, while others feel a sharper pain. Any persistent discomfort in the upper right part of the abdomen could indicate liver issues, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms.

4. Swelling (In the Legs or Abdomen)

Swelling, particularly in the legs or belly, can also occur with liver issues. If the liver isn’t able to manage fluid levels and blood flow effectively, fluid may start to build up in other parts of the body. 

Swelling in the legs, called edema, or a buildup of fluid in the abdomen, known as ascites, are both signs that the liver might be struggling.

Keep in Mind

It’s important to note that not everyone with abnormal liver enzyme levels will experience symptoms. Sometimes, these levels can be a quiet signal that something is off, even if you feel fine. 

This is why routine blood tests are helpful—they can catch liver issues early, allowing your doctor to take action before symptoms become noticeable.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you’ve found out that you have abnormal liver enzymes, it’s always a good idea to follow up with your doctor. Here are some situations where it’s especially important to reach out for medical guidance.

1. Persistent Symptoms

If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms—like yellowing of the skin (jaundice), consistent fatigue, or pain in the upper right part of your abdomen—it’s time to see a doctor. 

These symptoms can sometimes be signs of a more serious liver issue that needs attention. Don’t wait if these symptoms stick around or seem to be getting worse.

2. Abnormal Findings on Routine Checkups

Often, abnormal liver enzymes are discovered during routine blood tests, even if you’re not feeling any symptoms. Your doctor might suggest further tests to find out what’s causing these levels to rise. 

Following up is important because it helps pinpoint the root cause, whether it’s a temporary issue or something that needs more careful monitoring.

3. Lifestyle Factors Impacting Liver Health

Certain lifestyle habits, like regular alcohol consumption or taking medications that can affect the liver, put extra strain on this vital organ. 

If you drink alcohol frequently or are on medications (like over-the-counter pain relievers or cholesterol-lowering drugs), consider getting your liver enzymes checked, especially if you notice any changes in how you feel. 

Catching an issue early can make a big difference in managing and improving liver health.

Why Seeking Help Matters

The liver is an amazingly resilient organ, but it still benefits from extra care and early intervention. 

By understanding and responding to these signs, you give your liver the best chance to heal or recover if something’s wrong. 

In many cases, taking steps like adjusting medications, changing dietary habits, or reducing alcohol intake can improve liver enzyme levels and overall health significantly.

Natural Ways to Support Liver Health

Natural Ways to Support Liver Health

Caring for your liver doesn’t need to be complicated. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in keeping this vital organ healthy. Here are a few helpful and straightforward suggestions:

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

A nutritious diet can do wonders for your liver. Foods high in fiber, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, help support liver function by aiding digestion and preventing fat buildup in the liver. 

Try to include a variety of colors on your plate—green leafy vegetables, berries, oranges, and whole grains. 

This way, your liver gets the nutrients it needs to perform its role as your body’s natural filter.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water each day is one of the simplest ways to support liver health. When you’re well-hydrated, your liver can more easily flush out toxins and waste products from your blood. 

Aim for around eight glasses of water a day, or more if you’re active. Herbal teas or fruit-infused water can be refreshing options, too.

3. Limit Alcohol Intake

Alcohol can be particularly taxing on the liver, which processes it as a toxin. Drinking less alcohol, or cutting it out entirely, reduces the liver’s workload, giving it a chance to stay healthy and avoid issues like fatty liver disease. 

If you do drink, try to keep it to moderate levels—this means up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men.

4. Exercise Regularly

Exercise doesn’t just benefit your muscles and heart; it also supports your liver. 

Regular physical activity helps prevent excess fat from building up around the liver and can also lower inflammation throughout the body. 

Whether it’s walking, biking, or even dancing, just 30 minutes of activity most days can help maintain a healthy liver.

Why These Tips Matter

Following these steps can help reduce stress on your liver and support its function. Plus, these habits contribute to overall well-being by keeping you energized, helping digestion, and improving mood and immune health.

Conclusion

Finding out that you have abnormal liver enzymes can be concerning, but it’s not necessarily a reason to panic. Often, elevated liver enzymes are a sign that your liver might be under some stress or reacting to something in your body. 

This could be due to a temporary issue, like an infection, or longer-term factors, like diet, alcohol use, or medication.

Understanding what these enzyme levels mean and the ICD-10 codes used by doctors to classify them can make a big difference in managing your health. 

With this knowledge, you can have more productive conversations with your doctor and take steps toward better liver health, whether that’s through lifestyle changes or further testing if needed.

If you’re curious about more ways to support your health and want regular updates, why not subscribe to our newsletter? You’ll receive helpful wellness tips, expert insights, and the latest health information straight to your inbox!

At ReviveGrowWell.com, we prioritize the accuracy and reliability of our content. We base our articles on peer-reviewed research, reputable academic sources, and trusted medical journals to ensure that you receive accurate and up-to-date information. For more details on our commitment to content quality and credibility, please refer to our editorial policy.

  1. Liver Enzymes and Their Importance
  2. Causes of Elevated Liver Enzymes
    • National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). “Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).” NIDDK, available at https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/nafld-nash/definition-facts. The NIDDK provides insight into fatty liver disease, its risk factors, and its connection to elevated liver enzymes.
    • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.” CDC, available at https://www.cdc.gov. CDC outlines how hepatitis infections can cause liver inflammation and elevated enzyme levels.
    • Hazlehurst, Jonathan M., et al. “Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and diabetes.” Metabolism 65.8 (2016): 1096-1108.
  3. Alcohol Use and the Liver
  4. ICD-10 Codes for Abnormal Liver Enzymes
    • World Health Organization (WHO). “ICD-10: International Classification of Diseases.” WHO, available at https://www.who.int/classifications/icd/en/. WHO provides a resource on ICD-10 coding, including codes like R74.0 for serum enzyme levels and R94.5 for broader liver function abnormalities.
  5. Symptoms of Abnormal Liver Enzyme Levels
    • American Liver Foundation. “Signs and Symptoms of Liver Disease.” American Liver Foundation, available at https://liverfoundation.org. This source covers symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain, which can signal liver issues.
    • Cleveland Clinic. “Liver Disease Symptoms.” Cleveland Clinic, available at https://my.clevelandclinic.org. Cleveland Clinic provides a comprehensive overview of liver disease symptoms and when to seek medical attention.
  6. When to Seek Medical Help
    • Johns Hopkins Medicine. “Liver Disease: When to See a Doctor.” Johns Hopkins Medicine, available at https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org. This source discusses when abnormal liver enzyme levels and associated symptoms require medical intervention.
    • MedlinePlus. “Liver Function Tests and Their Interpretation.” U.S. National Library of Medicine, available at https://medlineplus.gov. MedlinePlus explains the importance of follow-up tests for abnormal enzyme levels to identify underlying causes.
  7. Natural Ways to Support Liver Health
    • Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “The Nutrition Source: Liver Health.” Harvard University, available at https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource. Harvard’s guide on nutrition for liver health, with recommendations on diet, hydration, and exercise.
    • National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). “Preventing Liver Disease.” NIDDK, available at https://www.niddk.nih.gov. NIDDK provides tips for liver health, emphasizing diet and lifestyle changes for liver support.

FAQ: Abnormal Liver Enzymes ICD-10 Code

What does it mean to have abnormal liver enzymes?

Abnormal liver enzymes indicate that certain liver enzyme levels, like ALT and AST, are higher than normal. This often signals that the liver is under stress or may be dealing with an underlying issue, such as inflammation, fatty liver disease, or infection.

What are the common causes of elevated liver enzymes?

Elevated liver enzymes can result from various factors, including infections like hepatitis, certain medications, alcohol use, fatty liver disease, diabetes, obesity, and gallbladder issues. These conditions can increase stress on the liver, raising enzyme levels.

What ICD-10 code is used for abnormal liver enzymes?

The ICD-10 code R74.0 is assigned for abnormal liver enzyme levels, while R94.5 is used for broader liver function abnormalities. These codes help healthcare providers document and track liver health issues.

What are the symptoms of abnormal liver enzyme levels?

Symptoms can include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fatigue, abdominal pain (especially in the upper right area), and swelling in the legs or abdomen. However, some individuals may have no symptoms at all, and elevated enzyme levels are only discovered through routine tests.

When should I be concerned about abnormal liver enzymes?

If you have persistent symptoms like jaundice, ongoing fatigue, or abdominal pain, it’s important to consult your doctor. Additionally, follow up on any abnormal liver enzyme findings from routine checkups, even if you feel fine.

How can I support my liver health naturally?

You can support liver health by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, limiting alcohol intake, and exercising regularly. These habits reduce stress on the liver and support its natural detoxification processes.

What lifestyle changes can help lower elevated liver enzymes?

Lowering alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, and eating a diet rich in fiber and antioxidants can help manage and potentially reduce elevated liver enzyme levels.

Can medications cause abnormal liver enzyme levels?

Yes, some medications, including over-the-counter painkillers like acetaminophen and certain antibiotics or cholesterol-lowering drugs, can cause elevated liver enzyme levels. Regular monitoring can help manage any potential side effects on the liver.

Is jaundice always a sign of liver problems?

Jaundice is commonly associated with liver issues as it occurs due to bilirubin buildup when the liver is not functioning well. However, it’s best to consult a doctor for a thorough evaluation to understand its exact cause.

Do abnormal liver enzymes always indicate liver disease?

Not always. Elevated liver enzymes can result from temporary conditions or lifestyle factors, like

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

Leave a Comment

Recent Posts

Our Tools

We use cookies to give you the best online experience. By agreeing you accept the use of cookies in accordance with our cookie policy.

Privacy Settings saved!
Privacy Settings

When you visit any web site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Control your personal Cookie Services here.

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems.

In order to use this website we use the following technically required cookies
  • wordpress_test_cookie
  • wordpress_logged_in_
  • wordpress_sec

For perfomance reasons we use Cloudflare as a CDN network. This saves a cookie "__cfduid" to apply security settings on a per-client basis. This cookie is strictly necessary for Cloudflare's security features and cannot be turned off.
  • __cfduid

Decline all Services
Accept all Services