ICD-10 Code I38 – Endocarditis, valve unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I38 – Endocarditis, valve unspecified
What it is
I38 identifies endocarditis when the affected heart valve is not specified in the documentation. It is used for valve infection or inflammation involving an unspecified valve, so you should not assume a particular valve.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include fever, a new or changing heart murmur, and evidence of valve infection on clinical evaluation or imaging.
When to use this code
Use I38 when the provider documents endocarditis but does not name the valve involved. It also fits cases where the record confirms valvular endocarditis without further valve detail. If the note specifies a valve, code that more specific option instead.
Do not use for
Do not use I38 when the documentation identifies the valve or clearly states a different endocarditis type. Check documentation if the record describes a noninfective valve disorder or another cardiac infection.
Coding tip
Query the provider when endocarditis is documented but the valve site is missing, because specificity may change the code selection.