AHA Coding Clinic® for ICD-9 - 2009 Issue 4; VOLUMES 1 & 2 NEW/REVISED CODES
Apparent Life Threatening Event in Infant
Effective October 1, 2009, a new code has been created to report apparent life threatening event (ALTE) in infant. According to the National Institutes of Health, ALTE is an episode that is frightening to the observer and is characterized by some combination of Apnea (central or obstructive) Color change (cyanotic, pallid, erythematous or plethoric) Change in muscle tone (usually diminished), and Choking or gagging In some cases, the observer fears that the infant has died. Previously used terminology such as near-miss sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) or aborted crib death is outdated. A variety of congenital or acquired conditions...
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Article Overview
This coding update article discusses the introduction of a new diagnosis code related to apparent life threatening events in infants, along with the clinical features and terminology associated with the syndrome. It also explains the broader context for when the code is relevant, the importance of tracking cases, and the need to consider associated signs and symptoms in accordance with the tabular guidance. The article is useful for coders, CDI specialists, and clinicians working with pediatric and newborn inpatient or outpatient documentation.
Why This Topic Matters
Apparent life threatening events can be documented inconsistently and may be linked to many possible underlying conditions. Understanding the coding update helps support accurate diagnosis reporting, data tracking, and proper interpretation of related documentation.
What You Will Learn
- What apparent life threatening event terminology refers to in clinical documentation
- Why the diagnosis code was introduced
- What general clinical features are associated with the syndrome
- Why associated signs and symptoms may need separate reporting
- How the article frames use of the code when no underlying diagnosis has been identified
Who Should Read This
- Medical coders
- Coding auditors
- Clinical documentation integrity specialists
- Pediatric clinicians
- Health information management professionals
Codes Discussed
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