Rickets, late effect

This code signifies the long-term, residual effects of rickets, a condition characterized by defective bone mineralization due to vitamin D deficiency, calcium deficiency, or phosphate deficiency during childhood. These late effects can manifest as skeletal deformities, short stature, or other persistent bone abnormalities that developed as a consequence of the earlier active rickets. It indicates that the active rickets has resolved, but its impact on the musculoskeletal system remains.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a patient is presenting with a chronic condition or deformity directly attributed to a past episode of rickets. This is appropriate for patients who no longer have active rickets but exhibit its lasting physical consequences. Supporting documentation would include a history of rickets and current findings of skeletal deformities or other sequelae.

• Always ensure the documentation specifies "late effect" or "sequela" of rickets, not active rickets.
• Code the specific manifestation of the late effect (e.g., specific bone deformity) as a primary diagnosis, with this code as a secondary diagnosis to indicate etiology.
• Do not use this code for active rickets; separate codes exist for the acute phase of the disease.