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Diagnosis Coding:
Using the ICD-10-CM

Coding Conventions

More Coding Conventions

  • With: The words "with" or "in" should be interpreted to mean "associated with" or "due to" when it appears in a code title, the Alphabetic Index, either under a main term or subterm, or an instructional note in the Tabular List.
  • "See" and "See Also":
    • The "see" instruction following a main term in the Alphabetic Index shows that another term should be referenced. It’s necessary to go to the main term referenced with the see note to locate the correct code.
    • A "see also" instruction following a main term in the Alphabetic Index instructs that there’s another main term that may also be referenced that may show additional Alphabetic Index entries that may be useful. It’s not necessary to follow the "see also" note when the original main term gives the necessary code.
  • "Code also" note: A "code also" note instructs that 2 codes may be needed to fully describe a condition, but this note doesn’t give sequencing direction. The sequencing depends on the circumstances of the encounter.

The Using the ICD-10-CM job aid includes more information about ICD-10-CM coding conventions. To access the job aid, click the Job Aid button or choose the Reference button at the top right of any course page.