Apparent life threatening event in infant (ALTE)
ICD-10 R68.13 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of apparent life threatening event in infant (alte).
An Apparent Life-Threatening Event (ALTE) in infants is characterized by an episode that is frightening to the observer and involves a combination of symptoms such as apnea, color change (cyanosis or pallor), altered muscle tone, and unresponsiveness. These events typically occur in infants under 1 year of age and can be alarming for caregivers, often leading to emergency medical evaluations. The exact cause of ALTE is frequently unknown, but it can be associated with various underlying conditions, including gastroesophageal reflux, infections, seizures, or metabolic disorders. The clinical presentation may vary, and while some infants may exhibit clear signs of distress, others may appear normal after the event. Diagnosis often involves a thorough history, physical examination, and may include laboratory tests or imaging studies to rule out serious underlying conditions. ALTE is a critical diagnosis as it can indicate potential life-threatening issues that require immediate attention.
Detailed history of the event, including duration, symptoms, and any interventions taken.
Infants presenting with unexplained apnea or color changes during routine check-ups.
Consideration of family history and environmental factors that may contribute to ALTE.
Immediate assessment notes, including vital signs, physical examination findings, and any resuscitative measures taken.
Infants brought to the emergency department after a witnessed ALTE episode.
Rapid assessment and documentation of the infant's condition and response to interventions are critical.
Used when an infant presents with ALTE and requires immediate evaluation.
Detailed notes on the infant's condition, interventions, and response.
Emergency medicine providers must document the urgency and nature of the event.
R68.13 is specifically for infants under 1 year of age. Events occurring in older children should be coded differently.
Yes, R68.13 can be used for recurrent ALTE episodes, but documentation must reflect the nature and frequency of these events.
