Infarction of spleen

This code signifies tissue death in the spleen resulting from an interruption of its blood supply. This ischemic event can lead to localized or widespread damage within the splenic parenchyma.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates splenic infarction, often presenting with sudden onset left upper quadrant pain, fever, and leukocytosis. Supporting documentation may include imaging reports (e.g., CT scan showing a wedge-shaped, hypodense lesion) or pathology findings.

• Do not code this with rupture of spleen due to Plasmodium vivax malaria (B51.0) or traumatic rupture of spleen (S36.03-).
• Investigate and code any underlying cause of the infarction, such as sickle cell disease (D57.-), endocarditis (I33.0, I38), or hypercoagulable states, as a secondary diagnosis.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "infarction" and not just "ischemia" for accurate coding.