Name of the Condition

• Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus without Complications (E10.9)
• Also known simply as Type 1 Diabetes or T1D.

Summary

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus is a chronic autoimmune condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone essential for allowing blood sugar (glucose) to enter cells and produce energy. Without adequate insulin, glucose remains in the bloodstream, leading to high blood sugar levels.

Causes

• Autoimmune Reaction: The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

• Genetic Factors: Family history can play a role, though the exact genetic factors are complex and not fully understood.

  Risk Factors

• Family History: Having a sibling or parent with type 1 diabetes can increase risk.
• Genetics: Certain genes may increase susceptibility.
• Geography: Incidents are higher in certain countries, such as Finland and Sweden.
• Age: Typically diagnosed in children, teens, and young adults.

Symptoms

• Frequent urination
• Increased thirst and hunger
• Unintended weight loss
• Fatigue and weakness
• Blurred vision

Diagnosis

• Blood Tests: Including fasting blood sugar, A1C, and random blood sugar tests to assess blood glucose levels.
• Autoantibody Testing: Helps determine if the diagnosis is type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
• C-peptide Test: Measures how much insulin the body is producing.

Treatment Options

• Insulin Therapy: Required for survival; involves administering insulin through injections or an insulin pump.
• Blood Sugar Monitoring: Regular checks to ensure glucose levels are within target range.
• Diet and Exercise: Helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With proper management including insulin therapy and lifestyle adjustments, individuals can lead healthy lives.
• Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare team are critical to monitor blood sugar control and prevent complications.

Complications

• While the code E10.9 refers specifically to type 1 diabetes without complications, potential issues from unmanaged diabetes include cardiovascular disease, nerve damage, kidney damage, and eye problems.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Diet: A balanced diet rich in nutrients and low in processed sugars is advised.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps manage blood sugar levels.
• Preventive measures are not definitively established due to the autoimmune nature of type 1 diabetes.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent high blood sugar readings despite adherence to treatment plan.
• Symptoms of high or low blood sugar not explained by diet or insulin changes.

Additional Resources

• American Diabetes Association: www.diabetes.org
• Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF): www.jdrf.org

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate distinction between type 1 and type 2 diabetes when coding.
• Verify that documentation supports a lack of complications to accurately use the E10.9 code.
• Common errors include confusing type 1 with type 2 or secondary diabetes; review patient history and clinical indicators for accuracy.