ICD-10 Code I31.39 – Other pericardial effusion (noninflammatory) (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I31.39 – Other pericardial effusion (noninflammatory)
What it is
I31.39 identifies fluid around the heart that is not described as inflammatory pericarditis. Use it when the record specifies a pericardial effusion and does not link it to an inflammatory cause.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may have imaging-confirmed pericardial fluid, and symptoms can be absent or include chest discomfort, shortness of breath, or signs of cardiac compression.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents an other, noninflammatory pericardial effusion, including incidental findings on echocardiography or CT. It is appropriate when the effusion is not coded as acute pericarditis, infectious disease, trauma, or another specified cause. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use I31.39 for pericarditis with effusion or for effusions clearly tied to another coded condition. If the chart only says “pericardial effusion” without further detail, check documentation for the correct code.
Coding tip
Code the effusion only when the provider documents it as noninflammatory or otherwise not linked to pericarditis.