Unstable angina
ICD-10 I20.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unstable angina.
Unstable angina is a clinical syndrome characterized by sudden and unpredictable episodes of chest pain or discomfort due to myocardial ischemia. It occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough blood, often as a result of coronary artery disease (CAD). The anatomy involved includes the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart. Unstable angina can manifest as new-onset angina, angina that occurs at rest, or a change in the pattern of previously stable angina. The disease progression can lead to acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and may precede myocardial infarction (heart attack). Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), and cardiac biomarkers to assess for ischemia. Patients may present with symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and diaphoresis, which require immediate medical attention. The management of unstable angina often involves medications such as antiplatelet agents, beta-blockers, and nitrates, along with lifestyle modifications and potential surgical interventions like angioplasty or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
I20.0 specifically covers unstable angina, which includes episodes of chest pain that are unpredictable and may occur at rest or with minimal exertion. It is important to differentiate it from stable angina, which is predictable and occurs with exertion.
I20.0 should be used when a patient presents with symptoms of unstable angina, particularly when there is a change in the pattern of angina or when angina occurs at rest. It is crucial to assess the severity and frequency of symptoms to determine the appropriate code.
Documentation for I20.0 should include a detailed account of the patient's symptoms, including onset, duration, and triggers of chest pain, as well as results from diagnostic tests such as ECG and cardiac enzyme levels that indicate myocardial ischemia.
