ICD-10 R53
Non-Billable HeaderMalaise and fatigue
About ICD-10-CM R53
ICD-10-CM code R53 represents Malaise and fatigue. This is a non-billable header code in the Symptoms, Signs, and Abnormal Findings chapter (block R53). The 2026 edition of ICD-10-CM R53 became effective on October 1, 2025. Non-billable codes cannot be used as a primary or secondary diagnosis on a claim, use a more specific child code instead.
Medicare LCD Coverage for R53
Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) from CMS MACs that list R53 as a covered diagnosis.
This doesn't mean the code isn't covered, it means no MAC has issued a Local Coverage Determination naming this specific code. Coverage may still apply under National Coverage Determinations or general medical-necessity rules.
Commercial Payer Coverage
Coverage policies from major commercial payers referencing R53.
Our payer policy database covers Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, BCBS, Humana, and Medicare Advantage plans, but R53 doesn't currently appear in any indexed policy. The code may still be covered under standard plan benefits.
CPT Codes Commonly Billed with R53
Procedures frequently paired with this diagnosis based on PayerReady's Dx↔Px linkage data.
We don't have CPT pairings indexed for this specific code yet. Use the CPT search above to find common procedures, or check your payer's published medical policy for code-specific guidance.
Codes Adjacent To R53
Other codes in section R50-R69 (General symptoms and signs).
ICD-10 R53, Billing FAQ
Is ICD-10 code R53 billable? +
No, R53 is a non-billable header code. Use a more specific child code from block R53 when submitting claims.
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Reviewed by the PayerReady Medical Coding Team
Verified against the CMS 2026 code set on May 31, 2026.
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