The Most Commonly Used ICD-11 Codes

Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases remain a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and this is reflected in the frequent use of related ICD-11 codes.

The most commonly used codes in this category include:

1. BA41 – Essential hypertension
2. BA40 – Ischaemic heart diseases
3. BA42 – Heart failure

These codes are extensively used due to the high prevalence of hypertension, coronary artery disease, and heart failure in aging populations across both developed and developing countries. The specificity of ICD-11 allows for more precise coding of these conditions, including various subtypes and severity levels.

Respiratory Diseases

Respiratory conditions, ranging from acute infections to chronic diseases, are another area where ICD-11 codes see frequent use.

The most common codes in this category include:

1. CA07 – Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
2. CA81 – Pneumonia
3. CA20 – Asthma

The high prevalence of COPD and asthma, particularly in urban areas with high pollution levels, contributes to the frequent use of these codes. Additionally, pneumonia remains a significant cause of hospitalization and mortality, especially among the elderly and immunocompromised individuals.

Endocrine, Nutritional, and Metabolic Diseases

With the global rise in obesity and diabetes, codes related to endocrine and metabolic disorders are increasingly common.

The most frequently used codes in this category include:

1. 5A10 – Type 2 diabetes mellitus
2. 5B81 – Obesity
3. 5A14 – Disorders of thyroid gland

The specificity of ICD-11 in categorizing different types of diabetes and their complications has made these codes particularly useful in clinical practice and research.

Mental, Behavioral, and Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Mental health has gained increasing recognition in recent years, leading to more frequent use of related ICD-11 codes.

The most common codes in this category include:

1. 6A70 – Major depressive disorder
2. 6A40 – Anxiety disorders
3. 6A20 – Schizophrenia

The improved classification of mental disorders in ICD-11, including the introduction of new categories and the refinement of existing ones, has contributed to the increased use of these codes.

Neoplasms

Cancer remains a significant global health concern, and ICD-11 codes related to neoplasms are widely used.

The most common codes in this category include:

1. 2C61 – Malignant neoplasms of breast
2. 2C25 – Malignant neoplasms of bronchus or lung
3. 2D50 – Malignant neoplasms of colon

The specificity of ICD-11 in classifying different types and stages of cancer has made these codes invaluable in oncology practice and research.

Infectious and Parasitic Diseases

Despite advances in public health, infectious diseases continue to be a significant concern globally.

The most commonly used codes in this category include:

1. 1C00 – HIV disease
2. 1A00 – Tuberculosis
3. 1G40 – Viral hepatitis

The ongoing global efforts to combat HIV, tuberculosis, and viral hepatitis are reflected in the frequent use of these codes. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to the extensive use of the code 1D6Z – Other specified viral diseases, which includes COVID-19.

Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System

With an aging global population, musculoskeletal disorders are becoming increasingly common.

The most frequently used codes in this category include:

1. FA11 – Osteoarthritis
2. FA50 – Low back pain
3. FA92 – Osteoporosis

These codes are particularly relevant in primary care and orthopedic settings, reflecting the high prevalence of degenerative joint diseases and bone disorders in older adults.

Injuries, Poisoning, and Certain Other Consequences of External Causes

Accidents and injuries remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.

The most common codes in this category include:

1. PL00 – Superficial injury
2. NA07 – Fracture of femur
3. NE80 – Intracranial injury

These codes are frequently used in emergency departments and trauma centers, reflecting the diversity of injuries encountered in clinical practice.

Symptoms, Signs, and Clinical Findings Not Elsewhere Classified

In many cases, patients present with symptoms that do not immediately correspond to a specific diagnosis.

The most commonly used codes in this category include:

1. MD10 – Abdominal pain
2. MG2Y – Dizziness and giddiness
3. MC40 – Headache

These codes are particularly useful in primary care and emergency settings, where definitive diagnoses may not be immediately available.

Factors Influencing Health Status and Contact with Health Services

ICD-11 includes codes for circumstances other than diseases or injuries that may influence an individual’s health status.

The most frequently used codes in this category include:

1. QA02 – Persons encountering health services for examination and investigation
2. QC7Y – Need for immunization against other single viral diseases
3. QB9Z – Family history of other specified diseases and conditions

These codes are crucial for preventive care, public health initiatives, and understanding the broader context of an individual’s health status.