ICD-10 Code I70.90 – Unspecified atherosclerosis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I70.90 – Unspecified atherosclerosis
What it is
I70.90 identifies atherosclerosis when the record confirms arterial plaque disease but does not specify the vessel or site. Use it when the documentation is too limited for a more detailed code.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Atherosclerosis may be noted on imaging, vascular studies, or physical exam findings, but the code itself only requires documented arterial plaque disease without a specified location.
When to use this code
Use I70.90 when the provider documents atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis, or plaque disease and does not identify the affected artery or arterial segment. It also fits when the chart confirms generalized atherosclerotic disease but gives no further detail. If the record names a site, choose the more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for atherosclerosis with a documented location, such as coronary, carotid, or peripheral arteries. Do not use it when the condition is better described by another vascular diagnosis; check documentation.
Coding tip
Query for the vessel involved before defaulting to I70.90, because specificity often changes the correct ICD-10-CM code.