ICD-10 Code I70.20 – Unspecified atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I70.20 – Unspecified atherosclerosis of native arteries of extremities
What it is
This code identifies atherosclerosis in the native arteries of the arms or legs when the record does not specify the vessel, side, or severity. Use it when documentation confirms peripheral arterial plaque disease but remains nonspecific.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include diminished peripheral pulses, leg pain with walking, cool extremities, or other evidence of reduced arterial flow in the affected limb.
When to use this code
Use I70.20 when the provider documents atherosclerosis of native extremity arteries without further detail. It fits cases where the chart does not identify the exact artery, laterality, or whether the disease is generalized or localized. If the note specifies a more precise peripheral arterial diagnosis, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for atherosclerosis of bypass grafts, arteries of the heart, or aneurysms. If documentation names a more specific extremity artery or complication, check documentation and select the exact code.
Coding tip
Query the provider when the record mentions peripheral arterial disease but does not clearly state native arteries or the involved extremity.