R10.0 – Acute abdomen

Discover the ICD-10 CM code R10.0 for acute abdomen. Learn about its symptoms, causes, and urgent medical attention needed.

By Patricia Buenaventura on Apr 28, 2025.

Fact Checked by Karina Jimenea.

Use Code
R10.0  – Acute abdomen

R10.0 diagnosis code: Acute abdomen

R10.0 is the code to use for acute abdomen, and it applies to any severe abdominal pain with abdominal rigidity. The code is under the chapter R00-R99: Symptoms, signs, and abnormal clinical and laboratory findings not elsewhere classified. More specifically, it belongs to the range of codes R10-R19: Symptoms and signs involving the digestive system and abdomen.

Do note that this code should not be used with the following ICD codes:

  • R19.3: Abdominal rigidity NOS
  • R10.84: Generalized abdominal pain nos
  • R10.1: Localized abdominal pain

Is R10.0 billable?

Yes, the diagnosis code R10.0, representing acute abdomen, is billable. However, billability may vary based on specific payer guidelines, coding rules, and documentation requirements. Healthcare providers should review the latest coding guidelines and consult with the respective coding authorities and payers to ensure accurate and compliant billing practices.

Clinical information

The clinical information related to R10.0: acute abdomen is:

  • Acute abdominal pain is a clinical syndrome with a rapid onset. It is a medical emergency requiring prompt evaluation and appropriate management.
  • The pain is localized in the abdomen and can be accompanied by symptoms such as vomiting, nausea, fever, abdominal distension, and changes in bowel habits.
  • Various conditions, including appendicitis, cholecystitis, intestinal obstruction, peritonitis, and ectopic pregnancy, among others, can cause the acute abdomen.
  • Diagnostic tests and procedures include laboratory tests (complete blood count, chemistry panel, etc.), imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, etc.), and sometimes exploratory surgery.
  • Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve surgical intervention, medications, or other interventions deemed necessary by healthcare professionals.

Synonyms include

  • Sudden severe abdominal pain
  • Acute abdominal distress
  • Abdominal emergency
  • Acute belly pain
  • Acute peritonitis
  • Acute bellyache
  • Acute abdominal colic
  • Acute abdominal syndrome
  • Acute belly cramps

Other ICD-10 codes commonly used for abdomen

Some other commonly used ICD-10 codes for acute abdomen include:

  • R10.1: Pain localized to upper abdomen
  • R10.2: Pelvic and perineal pain
  • R10.3: Pain localized to other parts of the lower abdomen
  • R10.9: Unspecified abdominal pain
  • K35.80: Unspecified acute appendicitis
  • K80.0: Calculus of gallbladder with acute cholecystitis
  • K56.0: Paralytic ileus
  • K65.0: Generalized (acute) peritonitis
  • K92.0: Hematemesis
  • K59.0: Constipation

Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I experience symptoms of the acute abdomen?

If you have sudden and severe abdominal pain and other concerning symptoms, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention. The acute abdomen can indicate a serious underlying condition requiring prompt evaluation and treatment.

What are the common causes of acute abdomen?

Various conditions, including appendicitis, cholecystitis, intestinal obstruction, perforated viscus, pancreatitis, and ectopic pregnancy can cause acute abdomen. Determining the specific cause requires a thorough medical assessment.

Is surgery always necessary for an acute abdomen?

The need for surgery in acute abdomen depends on the underlying cause. While some cases may require surgical intervention, others can be managed conservatively with appropriate medical treatment. A healthcare professional will determine the most suitable approach based on the patient's condition.

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