What does ICD-10-CM code N17.9 mean?
N17.9 represents Acute kidney failure, unspecified. This genitourinary condition is classified under Chapter 14 (Diseases of the Genitourinary System) and is commonly encountered in both primary care and specialty settings. Coders frequently reference this code as acute kidney failure icd 10 or acute kidney failure.
Code category and hierarchy
- Chapter: 14 – Diseases of the Genitourinary System (N00-N99)
- Category: N17
- Code: N17.9 – Acute kidney failure, unspecified
Guideline notes and coding considerations
Specificity Warning
N17.9 is an unspecified code. Query the provider for greater specificity when documentation suggests a more precise code is available. Using unspecified codes when specific codes exist may trigger audits.
- Excludes1: posttraumatic renal failure ( T79.5 )
Learn the underlying rules in the ICD-10 Coding Guidelines, Specificity Requirements, Risk Adjustment & MEAT Documentation.
Documentation tips (what coders should confirm)
- Verify the clinical documentation supports the use of N17.9
- Query the provider for greater specificity if clinical details suggest a more precise code
- This is a risk-adjusted diagnosis — ensure annual documentation with MEAT criteria (Monitor, Evaluate, Assess/Address, Treat)
When NOT to use N17.9
Do not assign N17.9 when the clinical scenario involves: posttraumatic renal failure ( T79.5 ); when documentation provides enough detail for a more specific code. Review excludes notes and assign the most specific code supported by documentation.
Audit risk
N17.9 is an unspecified code. Payers and auditors may flag claims with unspecified codes when the medical record contains sufficient detail for a more precise diagnosis. Query the provider for specificity before submitting.
Validate N17.9 Against ICD 10 CM Coding Guidelines
Check this code against official guidelines for conflicts and compliance issues.
Risk adjustment and HCC mapping
HCC Impact
N17.9 (Acute kidney failure, unspecified) maps to the following HCC categories: CMS-HCC V24: HCC 135, ESRD V24: HCC 135. Proper documentation using MEAT criteria (Monitor, Evaluate, Assess/Address, Treat) is required for each encounter to support risk-adjusted diagnoses.
Learn more about risk adjustment documentation in our Risk Adjustment & MEAT Documentation Guide.
Related ICD-10 codes
Frequently Asked Questions
The ICD-10-CM code for acute kidney failure is N17.9, which represents acute kidney failure, unspecified. This code is also commonly referenced as acute kidney failure. Verify this code using the ICD Code Auditor to ensure guideline compliance.
Yes. N17.9 is an active ICD-10-CM diagnosis code used to classify acute kidney failure, unspecified for clinical documentation, reporting, and medical billing purposes.
Use the ICD Code Auditor to check N17.9 against official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines. The tool validates by fiscal year and patient gender to identify potential conflicts.
N17.9 should be used only when clinical documentation does not provide enough detail for a more specific code. Always query the provider when documentation suggests greater specificity is available, as unspecified codes may trigger audits and impact risk adjustment.
Yes. N17.9 maps to HCC 135 in the CMS-HCC V24 model. Accurate coding of this condition directly impacts RAF scores for Medicare Advantage plans. Ensure documentation demonstrates the condition was evaluated and managed during the encounter.
Documentation should clearly describe the clinical condition represented by N17.9 (Acute kidney failure, unspecified). Include relevant clinical findings, diagnostic test results, provider assessment, and the treatment plan. The diagnosis must be supported by the medical record and not based solely on lab results without clinical interpretation.
Sources
Reviewed by: Certified ICD-10 Coding & Risk Adjustment Specialist
Learn more about our Clinical Coding Review Process