Acute rheumatic endocarditis

This code signifies inflammation of the inner lining of the heart, specifically the heart valves, occurring as an acute manifestation of rheumatic fever. It indicates active inflammatory damage to the endocardium, often leading to valvular dysfunction.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states acute rheumatic endocarditis, typically in the context of a recent or active rheumatic fever episode. Supporting documentation would include clinical findings of carditis, such as new heart murmurs, pericardial friction rub, or cardiomegaly, along with laboratory evidence of streptococcal infection or elevated inflammatory markers.

• Always code the underlying rheumatic fever (e.g., 390) first, as endocarditis is a manifestation.
• Do not use this code for chronic rheumatic heart disease or non-rheumatic endocarditis.
• Specify any associated valvular involvement (e.g., mitral, aortic) with additional codes if documented.