Drug-induced nonautoimmune hemolytic anemia

This code signifies a type of anemia characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells, specifically caused by an adverse reaction to a medication, and not due to an autoimmune process. The drug acts as a hapten, leading to immune-mediated destruction of red blood cells, or directly damages the red blood cells.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states hemolytic anemia is a direct consequence of drug exposure, and autoimmune causes have been ruled out or are not present. This typically occurs after initiation of a new medication or an increase in dosage, with subsequent resolution upon drug withdrawal.

• Always identify the specific drug causing the reaction and code it as an adverse effect (T36-T50 with a 5th or 6th character of 5).
• Distinguish carefully from autoimmune hemolytic anemia (D59.1-) and other forms of hemolytic anemia.
• Ensure documentation specifies "nonautoimmune" or provides sufficient detail to exclude autoimmune etiology.