Antepart hemorrhage w dissem intravasc coag, first trimester

This code signifies a bleeding episode occurring before delivery, specifically during the first trimester of pregnancy, that is complicated by disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). DIC is a serious condition where the body's clotting and anti-clotting mechanisms become overactive, leading to widespread clotting and bleeding simultaneously.

This code is appropriate when a pregnant patient in her first trimester presents with vaginal bleeding and a confirmed diagnosis of DIC. Documentation should clearly indicate the presence of antepartum hemorrhage and laboratory findings consistent with DIC, such as abnormal prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), low platelet count, and elevated D-dimer.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "first trimester" for the hemorrhage.
• Do not use this code if DIC is not present; consider other O46.- codes for antepartum hemorrhage without DIC.
• Code any underlying cause of the antepartum hemorrhage or DIC, if known, as an additional diagnosis.