Acute abdomen
ICD-10 R10.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute abdomen.
Acute abdomen refers to a sudden onset of severe abdominal pain that may indicate a serious underlying condition requiring immediate medical attention. Symptoms often include sharp or cramping pain, tenderness upon palpation, and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, or changes in bowel habits. The acute abdomen can arise from various causes, including appendicitis, pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, perforated ulcers, or ectopic pregnancy. Clinical evaluation typically involves a thorough history and physical examination, laboratory tests (such as complete blood count, electrolytes, and liver function tests), and imaging studies (like ultrasound or CT scans) to identify the underlying cause. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as sepsis or organ failure.
Detailed history of present illness, physical examination findings, and results of diagnostic tests.
Patients presenting with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, requiring differential diagnosis.
Ensure documentation reflects the urgency and potential complications associated with acute abdomen.
Rapid assessment notes, vital signs, and immediate lab/imaging results.
Patients with acute abdominal pain presenting to the emergency department.
Document the time of onset and any interventions performed to support the urgency of the condition.
Used for patients presenting with acute abdomen requiring immediate evaluation.
Document the severity of symptoms, history, and examination findings.
Emergency medicine providers should ensure rapid documentation to support the level of service.
Acute abdomen refers to sudden, severe abdominal pain often requiring immediate medical attention, while chronic abdominal pain is persistent and may not indicate an urgent condition.
