Acute rheumatic pericarditis

This code signifies an acute inflammatory process affecting the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart, specifically caused by rheumatic fever. It represents a serious cardiac manifestation of an acute rheumatic fever episode.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates acute pericarditis as a direct consequence of rheumatic fever. Supporting documentation would include evidence of recent streptococcal infection, clinical signs of rheumatic fever, and diagnostic findings consistent with pericardial inflammation (e.g., pericardial effusion, friction rub).

• Always code the underlying acute rheumatic fever (e.g., 390) first, as this pericarditis is a manifestation.
• Differentiate from other forms of acute pericarditis not caused by rheumatic fever (e.g., viral, idiopathic).
• Ensure the "acute" nature is documented; chronic rheumatic pericarditis would be coded differently.