Sjogren syndrome with tubulo-interstitial nephropathy

This code identifies Sjogren syndrome, a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by dry eyes and mouth, when it is complicated by tubulo-interstitial nephropathy. Tubulo-interstitial nephropathy involves inflammation and damage to the renal tubules and surrounding interstitial tissue, leading to impaired kidney function. This represents a specific renal manifestation of Sjogren syndrome.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of Sjogren syndrome and specifies the presence of tubulo-interstitial nephropathy as a complication. This code is appropriate when the kidney involvement is directly attributed to the underlying Sjogren syndrome. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing both conditions and their association.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the tubulo-interstitial nephropathy to Sjogren syndrome; do not assume the connection.
• Do not use this code if the renal involvement is due to another cause, even in a patient with Sjogren syndrome.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if the tubulo-interstitial nephropathy is the reason for the encounter, followed by codes for specific symptoms or other manifestations.