Endocarditis, valve unspecified
ICD-10 I38 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of endocarditis, valve unspecified.
Endocarditis, valve unspecified, refers to the inflammation of the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, which can occur due to various infectious agents, including bacteria, fungi, or other pathogens. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, and heart murmurs. The anatomy involved primarily includes the heart valves, which may be affected by vegetations—masses of platelets, fibrin, and microorganisms. Disease progression can lead to severe complications, including valve dysfunction, heart failure, and systemic embolization. Diagnostic considerations include blood cultures, echocardiography, and clinical criteria such as the Duke criteria, which help differentiate between infective endocarditis and other cardiac conditions. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent adverse outcomes, making awareness of this condition essential for healthcare providers.
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
I38 covers cases of endocarditis where the specific valve affected is not documented. This includes both acute and chronic forms of endocarditis that do not specify the valve involved.
I38 should be used when the clinical documentation indicates endocarditis but does not specify which valve is affected. If the valve is identified, codes such as I33 or I35 should be considered.
Documentation should include clinical findings such as fever, heart murmur, and positive blood cultures, as well as imaging studies like echocardiograms that support the diagnosis of endocarditis.
