ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for Stunting
Retarded development following protein-calorie malnutrition
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Stunting, nutritional”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding Stunting
The ICD-10-CM code for Stunting is E45 (Retarded development following protein-calorie malnutrition).
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) and DRG 641 (Miscellaneous Disorders of Nutrition, Metabolism, Fluids and Electrolytes without MCC, relative weight 0.7865), in MDC 10 (Endocrine, Nutritional and Metabolic Diseases and Disorders), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
It has been part of ICD-10-CM since the code set took effect on October 1, 2015 and hasn't changed since.
Common questions about Stunting ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for Stunting?
- E45 — Retarded development following protein-calorie malnutrition.
Is E45 billable?
- Yes. E45 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can E45 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict E45 as a principal diagnosis.
Is E45 a CC or MCC?
- E45 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.