Acute rheumatic endocarditis

This code signifies an acute inflammatory process affecting the endocardium, specifically the heart valves, as a direct result of rheumatic fever. It often manifests as valvulitis, potentially leading to valve insufficiency or stenosis. This condition is a serious complication of untreated or inadequately treated streptococcal infections.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates acute inflammation of the heart valves due to rheumatic fever. This typically occurs during the active phase of rheumatic fever, often following a streptococcal pharyngitis. Supporting documentation would include a diagnosis of rheumatic fever with specific mention of endocardial involvement, such as valvulitis or carditis.

• Do not use this code for chronic rheumatic heart disease without active inflammation.
• Always code the underlying rheumatic fever (I00) first, followed by this code for the specific cardiac manifestation.
• Look for terms like "rheumatic valvulitis," "rheumatic carditis with endocardial involvement," or "acute rheumatic endocarditis."