Hypercarotinemia

This code represents an elevated level of carotene in the blood, a condition often characterized by yellow or orange discoloration of the skin (carotenemia) due to excessive intake or impaired metabolism of carotenoids. It is typically a benign condition, distinct from jaundice, which indicates liver dysfunction.

Use this code when documentation specifies hypercarotinemia or carotenemia, particularly when a patient presents with yellow-orange skin discoloration not attributable to bilirubin elevation. This diagnosis is often supported by laboratory findings showing elevated serum carotene levels.

• Differentiate carefully from jaundice (782.4), which indicates hyperbilirubinemia and requires different diagnostic workup.
• Consider the patient's dietary history, as excessive consumption of carotene-rich foods (e.g., carrots, squash) is a common cause.
• This code is typically a secondary diagnosis unless the hypercarotinemia is the primary reason for the encounter (e.g., for diagnostic workup).