Chronic rheumatic pericarditis

This code represents a persistent inflammation of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart) that is a long-term consequence of rheumatic fever. It signifies a chronic fibrotic or adhesive process affecting the pericardium, often leading to impaired cardiac function.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of chronic pericarditis with an established etiology of rheumatic fever. Supporting documentation would include a history of rheumatic fever and clinical findings consistent with chronic pericardial inflammation, such as pericardial thickening or adhesions identified via imaging.

• Differentiate from acute rheumatic pericarditis, which would be coded differently.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the chronic pericarditis to a rheumatic origin.
• Consider sequencing this code after any active rheumatic heart disease if present and still being treated.