Edema ICD-10-CM Codes
Read this short guide and learn about edema ICD codes you can use.
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What edema ICD codes can I use?
If you’re looking for edema ICD codes to use, there are three that you can take advantage of:
- R60.9 - Edema, unspecified: This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have edema. In the context of this ICD-10 code, it is not specified or known what type of edema the patient has. There are two types: localized edema and generalized edema.
- Localized edema is a type of edema that occurs in specific locations or organs.
- On the other hand, generalized edema is a type of edema that affects the whole body.
If the type is unknown, then this ICD code can be used. Using the following codes is best if the type has been identified.
- R60.0 - Localized edema: This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have localized edema.
- R60.1 - Generalized edema: This ICD-10 code is meant to be used on a patient confirmed to have generalized edema.
Please note that these edema ICD codes are not valid as principal diagnoses. An underlying condition or problem causes edema, so the principal diagnosis should be what’s causing the edema in your patients.
Are these edema ICD codes billable?
Yes. All three edema-related ICD codes are valid (but not as principal diagnoses) and billable.
Clinical information about edema:
Edema is the term that healthcare professionals use to refer to any swelling caused by fluid build-ups in tissues. This is a common problem affecting any person of any age. Still, it’s more common in pregnant women and the elderly. Edema can form anywhere but is most common in the lower extremities.
As we mentioned earlier, there are two general types of edema: localized and generalized. There are several subtypes of edema, including peripheral edema, pedal edema, macular edema, cerebral edema (this one is dangerous), and pulmonary edema (this is also dangerous).
If a person has edema, they will likely have the following symptoms:
- The most basic sign is an enlargement of a specific area of the body
- The swelling looks stretchy and somewhat shiny
- The affected area feels tight, and there will be pain and discomfort accompanying it
- Depending on the type of edema, certain inconveniences may occur, like having trouble with mobility and having difficulty breathing
Synonyms include:
- Acute edema
- Brawny edema
- Edema due to fluid overload
- Edema of soft tissue due to increased capillary pressure
- Exudative edema
- Firm nonpitting edema
- Firm pitting edema
- Generalized edema
- Idiopathic edema
- Infectious edema
- Localized edema
- Non-pitting edema
- Periodic edema
- Peripheral edema
- Pitting edema
Commonly asked questions
No. There aren’t any other edema ICD codes. Perhaps codes for subtypes will emerge someday.
Being pregnant, insect bites, kidney disease, thyroid disease, liver disease, heart disease, traumatic head injuries, allergies, and certain medications can cause edema.
Some are mild and may go away independently, but to treat edema, healthcare professionals will focus on treating the underlying conditions causing it. As mentioned earlier, many things can cause edema, so the treatment will depend on the causes.
