Rickets, active

This code represents the active form of rickets, a bone-softening disease in children caused by severe and prolonged vitamin D deficiency. It results in inadequate mineralization of the growing bone and cartilage, leading to skeletal deformities.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates active rickets due to nutritional vitamin D deficiency in a pediatric patient. Look for clinical signs such as bowed legs, enlarged wrists/ankles, rachitic rosary, and laboratory findings consistent with active disease (e.g., low vitamin D, elevated alkaline phosphatase).

• Carefully review documentation to differentiate active rickets from inactive rickets or sequelae, which are coded differently.
• Always check the "Excludes1" list to avoid incorrect co-coding with conditions like celiac rickets or hereditary forms.
• Ensure the provider specifies "active" rickets; if not, query for clarification.