Ascorbic acid deficiency

This code represents a dietary deficiency of ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C deficiency, which can manifest with symptoms such as fatigue, gum inflammation, petechiae, and impaired wound healing. It describes the active nutritional deficiency state, not its long-term effects or specific hematological complications.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of ascorbic acid deficiency or vitamin C deficiency. Supporting clinical evidence may include dietary history indicating inadequate intake, laboratory findings of low plasma ascorbic acid levels, and characteristic physical signs.

• Do not code this with D53.2 (scorbutic anemia) or E64.2 (sequelae of vitamin C deficiency) as these are "Excludes1" conditions.
• Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes between active deficiency and historical or resolved deficiency.
• Consider additional codes for any associated symptoms or manifestations that are not inherent to the deficiency itself, if separately documented.