Acute rheumatic pericarditis

This code signifies inflammation of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart) that is directly caused by an acute rheumatic fever episode. It indicates a specific cardiac manifestation of rheumatic fever, characterized by pericardial effusion, chest pain, and friction rub.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly links acute pericarditis to a confirmed diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever. This typically occurs in the acute phase of rheumatic fever, often alongside other cardiac involvement like myocarditis or endocarditis. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the rheumatic etiology.

• Ensure documentation clearly states the "rheumatic" origin of the pericarditis to differentiate it from other forms.
• Do not code with I30.- (acute pericarditis not specified as rheumatic) as per Excludes1 note.
• Always code the underlying acute rheumatic fever (I00) first, followed by this code as a manifestation.