Cyanosis

This code represents a bluish discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes, indicating inadequate oxygenation of the blood. It is a clinical sign, not a disease itself, and typically reflects an underlying cardiopulmonary or circulatory issue.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states the presence of cyanosis without further specification of the underlying cause. This may be observed in conditions like severe respiratory distress, congenital heart defects, or circulatory shock. Documentation should clearly describe the presence of bluish discoloration.

• Always code the underlying cause of cyanosis first, if known and documented.
• This code is a symptom code and should generally be sequenced after the definitive diagnosis.
• Avoid using this code if a more specific code for the underlying condition (e.g., congenital heart disease with cyanosis) is available.