Acute endocarditis, unspecified

This code signifies an acute inflammation of the endocardium, the inner lining of the heart chambers and valves, when the specific cause or type of endocarditis is not documented. It indicates a sudden onset of this cardiac infection without further specification.

Use this code when the physician documents "acute endocarditis" without specifying the infectious agent (e.g., bacterial, viral, fungal) or the specific valve affected. Documentation must clearly state "acute endocarditis" and lack further detail for this unspecified code to be appropriate.

• Avoid using this code if the causative organism is known; instead, code to a more specific bacterial or other infectious endocarditis code.
• Always review the entire medical record for more specific documentation regarding the type or etiology of endocarditis.
• Consider sequencing this code after any underlying systemic infection if applicable and documented.