Sideroblastic anemia

This code identifies a group of acquired or inherited anemias characterized by the presence of ring sideroblasts in the bone marrow. These anemias result from impaired heme synthesis, leading to iron accumulation within the mitochondria of erythroid precursors. Patients typically present with microcytic or normocytic anemia.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of sideroblastic anemia, whether primary (idiopathic) or secondary to conditions like myelodysplastic syndromes, lead poisoning, or certain drug toxicities. Confirmation often relies on bone marrow biopsy findings demonstrating ring sideroblasts.

• Distinguish between primary (idiopathic) and secondary sideroblastic anemia when possible, though this code covers both.
• Do not confuse with other types of anemia, such as iron deficiency anemia (280.x) or anemia of chronic disease (285.22).
• Code any underlying cause of secondary sideroblastic anemia as an additional diagnosis.