ICD-10 Code E78.2 for Mixed Hyperlipidemia

ICD-10 Code E78.2

Mixed hyperlipidemia is a common lipid disorder characterized by elevated cholesterol with elevated triglycerides. Healthcare providers use the specific code E78.2 in the ICD-10 coding system to document this condition accurately. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about diagnosis code E78.2, including its clinical significance, coding guidelines, and relationship to disorders of lipoprotein metabolism.

What is ICD-10 Code E78.2?

The ICD 10 code E78.2 represents mixed hyperlipidemia, a metabolic condition where patients present with abnormally high levels of both cholesterol and triglycerides in their bloodstream. This dx code e78.2 falls under the broader category of disorders of lipoprotein metabolism and other lipidemias (E78).

The e782 diagnosis code specifically identifies patients with:

  • Elevated LDL cholesterol levels
  • Increased triglyceride concentrations
  • Abnormal lipid profiles detected through blood tests
  • Combined elevation of multiple lipid components

This 2026 ICD-10-CM diagnosis code remains consistent with previous years classifications (2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025), ensuring continuity in medical documentation and billing practices.

Understanding Mixed Hyperlipidemia (E78.2)

Mixed hyperlipidemia, also coded as mixed HLD ICD 10 E78.2, affects millions of people worldwide. Unlike hyperlipidemia unspecified, this specific code indicates a definitive pattern of lipid abnormalities confirmed through laboratory testing.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with mixed hyperlipidemia E78.2 may experience:

  • Generally asymptomatic in early stages
  • Occasionally develop eruptive xanthoma (fatty deposits under the skin)
  • Increased cardiovascular risk
  • Potential for early-onset heart disease
  • Family history patterns suggesting genetic factors

Fredrickson Classification Connection

The diagnosis code E78 2 correlates with the Fredrickson hyperlipoproteinemia type IIB or III classification system. This scientific framework helps clinicians understand the underlying metabolic dysfunction:

  • Type IIB: Hyperbetalipoproteinemia with prebetalipoproteinemia, featuring elevated LDL and VLDL
  • Type III: Dysbetalipoproteinemia with remnant particle accumulation

Familial Combined Hyperlipidemia ICD 10

One of the most common genetic causes of mixed hyperlipidemia is familial combined hyperlipidemia (FCH). The familial combined hyperlipidemia ICD 10 code is also E78.2, as it represents a specific type of mixed lipid disorder.

Familial combined hyperlipidemia affects approximately 1-2% of the general population and demonstrates:

  • Autosomal dominant inheritance pattern
  • Variable expression within families
  • Early cardiovascular disease risk
  • Multiple affected family members across generations
  • Response to lifestyle modifications and medication

ICD-10 Code E78.2: Coding Guidelines and Documentation

Proper use of the icd 10 code for mixed hyperlipidemia requires accurate documentation and understanding of coding conventions.

Table 1: ICD-10 Code E78 Family Overview

Code

Description

Specificity Level

E78

Disorders of lipoprotein metabolism and other lipidemias

Category level

E78.0

Pure hypercholesterolemia

Specific

E78.1

Pure hyperglyceridemia

Specific

E78.2

Mixed hyperlipidemia

Specific

E78.3

Hyperchylomicronemia

Specific

E78.4

Other hyperlipidemia

Specific

E78.5

Hyperlipidemia, unspecified

Non-specific

Documentation Requirements

When using the combined hyperlipidemia ICD 10 code, medical records should include:

  1. Laboratory Values: Recent blood tests showing elevated cholesterol and triglycerides
  2. Clinical Context: Symptoms, risk factors, and physical examination findings
  3. Diagnostic Criteria: Confirmation that both lipid components are elevated
  4. Treatment Plan: Prescribed medications, lifestyle modifications, and follow-up schedule

Context annotation back references in electronic health records help ensure accurate code assignment and reimbursement.

Diagnostic Criteria and Blood Tests

Proper diagnosis using the ICD 10 E78 2 code requires comprehensive lipid panel results. Healthcare providers order blood tests after a 9-12 hour fast for the most accurate readings.

Table 2: Lipid Panel Reference Ranges for E78.2 Diagnosis

Lipid Component

Normal Range

Elevated Level (E78.2)

Total Cholesterol

<200 mg/dL

≥240 mg/dL

LDL Cholesterol

<100 mg/dL

≥160 mg/dL

Triglycerides

<150 mg/dL

≥200 mg/dL

HDL Cholesterol

≥40 mg/dL (men), ≥50 mg/dL (women)

May be decreased

Non-HDL Cholesterol

<130 mg/dL

≥190 mg/dL

For the e782 ICD 10 code to apply, both cholesterol and triglyceride values must demonstrate significant elevation above normal limits.

Treatment and Management Considerations

Once diagnosis code E78 2 is established, treatment typically involves:

Lifestyle Modifications

  • Heart-healthy dietary changes (reduced saturated fats and refined carbohydrates)
  • Regular physical activity (150 minutes weekly of moderate exercise)
  • Weight management for overweight patients
  • Smoking cessation
  • Limited alcohol consumption

Pharmacological Interventions

  • Statins for LDL cholesterol reduction
  • Fibrates for triglyceride management
  • Combination therapy when monotherapy proves insufficient
  • Regular monitoring through follow-up blood tests
  • Adjustment based on treatment response

International Versions of ICD-10 E78.2

While the ICD 10 code E78 2 is standard in the United States, the international versions of ICD-10 may have slight variations in formatting or additional subclassifications. Healthcare providers working internationally should verify local coding requirements and documentation standards.

Most countries recognize the core icd e78 2 classification, though implementation details and reimbursement policies vary by healthcare system.

Clinical Significance and Prognosis

Understanding the e78 icd 10 code helps healthcare teams communicate effectively about patient care. Mixed hyperlipidemia significantly increases cardiovascular disease risk, including:

  • Coronary artery disease
  • Myocardial infarction (heart attack)
  • Stroke
  • Peripheral arterial disease
  • Pancreatitis (when triglycerides are extremely elevated)

Early diagnosis using the proper icd 10 code for mixed hyperlipidemia enables timely intervention and reduces long-term complications. Studies show that aggressive lipid management can reduce cardiovascular events by 25-35% in high-risk patients.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code E78.2 serves as the standard diagnosis code for mixed hyperlipidemia, enabling accurate medical documentation, appropriate treatment, and proper billing practices. Whether documenting familial combined hyperlipidemia icd 10 or acquired forms of mixed lipid disorders, this specific code ensures clear communication across healthcare settings.

Healthcare providers should maintain thorough documentation including laboratory values, clinical findings, and treatment plans when using the e782 diagnosis code. Regular monitoring through blood tests and appropriate therapeutic interventions can significantly improve outcomes for patients with elevated cholesterol with elevated triglycerides.

As we move through 2025 and approach 2026, the ICD-10-CM diagnosis code E78.2 remains the cornerstone of accurate lipid disorder classification, supporting quality patient care and evidence-based treatment strategies for this common yet serious metabolic condition.

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