D51.0

What This Code Means

This is a type of anemia caused by the body's inability to produce intrinsic factor, a protein needed to absorb vitamin B12 from food. Without adequate B12 absorption, the body cannot make enough healthy red blood cells, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Coding Tips

• •This code is specific to pernicious anemia (the most common cause of intrinsic factor deficiency); do not use this code if the B12 deficiency is due to dietary insufficiency or other causes
• •Verify documentation confirms the deficiency is specifically due to intrinsic factor deficiency rather than other B12 absorption issues, as this affects code selection