Pericarditis in systemic lupus erythematosus

This code identifies inflammation of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart) specifically when it occurs as a manifestation of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Pericarditis in SLE can present with chest pain, dyspnea, and pericardial friction rub, and may be acute or chronic.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates pericarditis as a direct complication or feature of a patient's diagnosed systemic lupus erythematosus. Supporting documentation should include physician notes detailing the diagnosis of pericarditis and its association with SLE, often confirmed by imaging (e.g., echocardiogram) or clinical findings.

• Always sequence the underlying systemic lupus erythematosus (M32.10, M32.19) first, as pericarditis is a manifestation.
• Do not use this code for pericarditis due to other causes; ensure the direct link to SLE is documented.
• Consider additional codes for specific types of pericarditis (e.g., acute, chronic) if further detail is provided and a more specific code exists.