ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code R60.0 – Peripheral Edema 

Peripheral edema, often referred to simply as “edema,” is a medical condition characterized by the abnormal accumulation of fluid in the interstitial spaces of peripheral tissues, such as the legs, feet, ankles, and hands. This excess fluid causes visible swelling, which can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, indicates an underlying medical issue. 

ICD-10-CM Code R60.0 

ICD-10-CM code R60.0 specifically pertains to “Localized edema.” This code is used when healthcare providers diagnose a patient with edema in a localized area, which can include the limbs, face, or other specific body parts. The code is crucial for accurately documenting the condition in medical records and facilitating insurance claims processing. 

2024 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code R60.0 

• R60.0 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes. 
• The 2024 edition of ICD-10-CM R60.0 became effective on October 1, 2023. 
• This is the American ICD-10-CM version of R60.0 – other international versions of ICD-10 R60.0 may differ. 

The following code(s) above R60.0 contain annotation back-references that may be applicable to R60.0: 

• R00-R99 Symptoms, signs and abnormal clinical and laboratory findings, not elsewhere classified 
• R60 Edema, not elsewhere classified 

Approximate Synonyms 

• Ankle edema 
• Ankle swelling 
• Edema (swelling) leg 
• Edema of lower extremity 
• Edema, localized 

Clinical Information 

• A disorder characterized by swelling due to excessive fluid accumulation at a specific anatomic site. 
• Swelling due to an excessive accumulation of fluid at a specific anatomic site. 

ICD-10-CM R60.0 is grouped within Diagnostic Related Group(s) (MS-DRG v41.0): 

• 947 Signs and symptoms with mcc 
• 948 Signs and symptoms without mcc 

Convert R60.0 to ICD-9-CM Code History 

• 2016 (effective 10/1/2015): New code (first year of non-draft ICD-10-CM) 
• 2017 (effective 10/1/2016): No change 
• 2018 (effective 10/1/2017): No change 
• 2019 (effective 10/1/2018): No change 
• 2020 (effective 10/1/2019): No change 
• 2021 (effective 10/1/2020): No change 
• 2022 (effective 10/1/2021): No change 
• 2023 (effective 10/1/2022): No change 
• 2024 (effective 10/1/2023): No change 

Localized edema – R60 

Excludes1: 

angioneurotic edema (T78.3) 
ascites (R18.-) 
cerebral edema (G93.6) 
cerebral edema due to birth injury (P11.0) 
edema of larynx (J38.4) 
edema of nasopharynx (J39.2) 
edema of pharynx (J39.2) 
gestational edema (O12.0-) 
hereditary edema (Q82.0) 
hydrops fetalis NOS (P83.2) 
hydrothorax (J94.8) 
newborn edema (P83.3) 
pulmonary edema (J81.-) 

Common Causes of Peripheral Edema 

Understanding the underlying causes of peripheral edema is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment. This condition can be attributed to a variety of factors, including: 

1. Heart Conditions: Congestive heart failure (ICD-10 code I50) is a significant contributor to peripheral edema. In heart failure, the heart’s pumping ability is compromised, leading to fluid retention and swelling in the extremities. 

2. Kidney Disease: Chronic kidney disease (ICD-10 code N18) can disrupt the body’s fluid balance, leading to edema. The kidneys play a vital role in filtering excess fluid from the bloodstream, and when they function improperly, fluid can accumulate. 

3. Venous Insufficiency: Chronic venous insufficiency (ICD-10 code I87.2) causes blood to pool in the veins, leading to increased pressure and fluid leakage into the surrounding tissues, resulting in edema. 

4. Medications: Some medications, such as calcium channel blockers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and certain steroids, can cause peripheral edema as a side effect. 

5. Infections: Localized infections, like cellulitis (ICD-10 code L03), can lead to inflammation and fluid accumulation in the affected area, resulting in edema. 

6. Pregnancy: Edema is common during pregnancy (ICD-10 code O12.1). Hormonal changes and the increased pressure on blood vessels can lead to fluid retention in the legs and ankles. 

7. Lymphatic Issues: Lymphedema (ICD-10 code I89.0) is a condition where the lymphatic system doesn’t function properly, leading to the accumulation of lymph fluid and subsequent edema. 

8. Trauma and Injury: Physical trauma, such as a sprained ankle or broken leg, can cause localized edema as part of the body’s natural healing response. 

Symptoms of Peripheral Edema 

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of peripheral edema is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers. The common indicators include: 

• Swelling in the affected extremities, such as the legs, ankles, and feet. 
• Puffiness and a feeling of tightness in the affected areas. 
• Skin that appears stretched, shiny, or discolored. 
• Reduced flexibility and mobility in the affected limbs. 
• Pain or discomfort in the swollen areas. 

It’s important to note that peripheral edema can be unilateral (affecting one limb) or bilateral (affecting both limbs). 

Diagnosis of Peripheral Edema 

Proper diagnosis is essential to determine the cause of peripheral edema and guide appropriate treatment. Healthcare providers use a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests to identify the underlying condition. The ICD-10-CM code R60.0, “Peripheral edema,” plays a critical role in documenting this diagnosis. 

Diagnostic Tests 

To pinpoint the exact cause of peripheral edema, various diagnostic tests may be ordered, including: 

• Blood Tests: These can help identify underlying conditions such as kidney or liver dysfunction. 
• Imaging Studies: X-rays, ultrasounds, or CT scans may be used to visualize the affected area and rule out structural issues like blood clots or tumors. 
• Echocardiography: This test assesses the heart’s function and can detect conditions like congestive heart failure. 
• Doppler Ultrasound: It can evaluate blood flow in the veins and detect venous insufficiency. 
• Lymphoscintigraphy: This specialized test is used to diagnose lymphedema by mapping lymphatic flow. 

Treatment of Peripheral Edema 

The treatment of peripheral edema primarily depends on the underlying cause. Addressing the root issue is crucial in managing and alleviating the symptoms. Here are some common approaches to treating peripheral edema: 

1. Lifestyle Modifications 

For mild cases and as a supportive measure in more severe cases, lifestyle changes can be effective: 

• Diet: Reducing salt intake can help prevent fluid retention. The ICD-10-CM code for “Excessive sodium intake” is E87.1. 
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can promote circulation and reduce swelling. The ICD-10-CM code for “Inactivity and other sedentary behavior” is Z72.4. 
• Compression Garments: Wearing compression stockings or sleeves can help improve venous circulation. 

2. Medications 

Depending on the underlying condition, medications may be prescribed: 

• Diuretics: These medications, represented by ICD-10 code “Diuretics and other and unspecified drugs, medicaments, and biological substances causing adverse effects in therapeutic use” (T88.7), help the body eliminate excess fluid. 
• Medications for Underlying Conditions: Treatment may involve managing conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency with specific medications. 

Conclusion 

Peripheral edema, as represented by ICD-10-CM code R60.0, is a common medical condition with various underlying causes. Recognizing the symptoms, accurately diagnosing the condition, and determining the root cause are essential steps in providing effective patient care. The treatment approach for peripheral edema depends on the underlying condition, emphasizing the importance of accurate diagnosis.