Atherosclerosis of renal artery

This diagnosis code signifies a hardening and narrowing of the arteries supplying the kidneys due to plaque buildup. This condition can impair renal blood flow, potentially leading to hypertension and kidney dysfunction. It specifically refers to the larger renal arteries, not the smaller arterioles.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states atherosclerosis affecting the renal artery. This includes conditions like renal artery stenosis caused by atherosclerotic plaque. Supporting documentation would typically include imaging reports (e.g., renal angiography, duplex ultrasound) confirming atherosclerotic changes in the renal artery.

• Differentiate from atherosclerosis of renal arterioles (I12.-), which is an Excludes2 note.
• Always review imaging and physician documentation to confirm the specific vessel affected.
• Code any associated hypertension or chronic kidney disease separately, as these are often co-morbidities.