Chronic metabolic acidosis

This code represents a persistent state where the body's pH is abnormally low due to an accumulation of acid or excessive loss of bicarbonate, lasting for an extended period. It indicates a chronic imbalance in the body's acid-base regulation, often stemming from underlying systemic conditions.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of chronic metabolic acidosis. This typically applies to patients with long-term kidney disease, uncontrolled diabetes, certain drug toxicities, or other chronic conditions leading to sustained acid-base disturbances. Supporting documentation should include laboratory results (e.g., low pH, low bicarbonate) and a physician's explicit diagnosis of "chronic metabolic acidosis."

• Distinguish from acute metabolic acidosis; ensure the documentation specifies "chronic."
• Always code the underlying cause of the chronic metabolic acidosis first, if known and documented.
• Do not use this code for respiratory acidosis or mixed acid-base disorders unless metabolic acidosis is specifically identified as chronic.