ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for protein deficiency
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Deficiency, deficient › protein”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding protein deficiency
The ICD-10-CM code for protein deficiency is E46 (Unspecified protein-calorie malnutrition). The official index lists 3 more specific codes, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on E46.
Don't report E46 together with the conditions in its Excludes1 note: nutritional deficiency NOS (E63.9).
As a secondary diagnosis it is a CC (complication or comorbidity), which can move an inpatient stay into the "with CC" MS-DRG of its family, unless the principal diagnosis excludes it.
In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 640 (Miscellaneous Disorders of Nutrition, Metabolism, Fluids and Electrolytes with MCC, relative weight 1.3395), DRG 641 (Miscellaneous Disorders of Nutrition, Metabolism, Fluids and Electrolytes without MCC, relative weight 0.7865), DRG 791 (Prematurity with Major Problems, relative weight 4.1075) and DRG 793 (Full Term Neonate with Major Problems, relative weight 4.2195), in MDC 10 (Endocrine, Nutritional and Metabolic Diseases and Disorders) and MDC 15 (Newborns and Other Neonates with Conditions Originating in the Perinatal Period), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
More specific protein deficiency codes (official index)
Don't confuse with (Excludes1 for E46)
- nutritional deficiency NOS (E63.9)
Common questions about protein deficiency ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for protein deficiency?
- E46 — Unspecified protein-calorie malnutrition. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: D53.0, D68.59, D68.59.
What is the ICD-10 code for anemia protein deficiency?
- D53.0 — Protein deficiency anemia.
What is the ICD-10 code for c protein deficiency?
- D68.59 — Other primary thrombophilia.
What is the ICD-10 code for s protein deficiency?
- D68.59 — Other primary thrombophilia.
Is E46 billable?
- Yes. E46 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can E46 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict E46 as a principal diagnosis.
Is E46 a CC or MCC?
- E46 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.