D500 - Iron deficiency anemia caused by ongoing blood loss over time

International Classification of Diseases

Last updated: 10/3/2025

What is a ICD-10 Code?

ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) codes are used to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures recorded in association with hospital care. These codes provide a standardized way to track health conditions and their treatment outcomes.

Detailed Description

This condition means you have anemia (low red blood cell count) because your body doesn't have enough iron. The iron deficiency happened because you've been losing small amounts of blood over a long period of time, which gradually depleted your body's iron stores. This type of blood loss is often so slow that you might not notice it happening. Common causes include heavy menstrual periods, bleeding in the digestive tract from ulcers or other conditions, or frequent blood donations. Your body needs iron to make healthy red blood cells, so when iron levels get too low, you develop anemia, which can make you feel tired, weak, or short of breath.

Additional Information

Treatment focuses on both replacing iron and finding/stopping the source of blood loss. Recovery time varies depending on severity and underlying cause. Most patients respond well to treatment when the bleeding source is identified and managed.

Category

Blood and Blood-forming Organs

Medical Specialty

Hematology, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine

Expected Costs

We expect this to normally be in the range of:

$200 - $1500

This is an estimate based on typical billing patterns. Your actual cost may vary depending on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.

What's Required Before This

  • Blood tests showing low iron levels
  • Evidence of chronic blood loss
  • Complete blood count showing anemia

What to Expect After

  • Iron supplementation
  • Identify and treat source of bleeding
  • Regular blood monitoring
  • Dietary counseling
  • Follow-up appointments to track improvement

Why Understanding This Code Matters

On Your Medical Bill

This code appears on your medical bills to identify the specific service, procedure, drug, or medical diagnosis you received. Understanding what it means helps you verify you're being charged correctly and know what to expect.

For Your Health

Knowing what this code represents helps you understand your treatment plan, ask better questions during appointments, and track your healthcare journey more effectively.

Want This Level of Detail on All Your Claims?

Get detailed explanations for every medical code on your Medicare bills. Currently supporting Medicare only.