ICD-10 Code I42.0 – Dilated cardiomyopathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I42.0 – Dilated cardiomyopathy
What it is
Dilated cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that causes the ventricles to enlarge and pump less effectively. Use this code when documentation identifies dilated cardiomyopathy without a more specific cause.
Clinical signs
Common findings include reduced systolic function, chamber enlargement, and symptoms of heart failure such as dyspnea, fatigue, or edema. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I42.0 when the record clearly documents dilated cardiomyopathy as the diagnosis. It is appropriate for encounters focused on evaluation, monitoring, or management of this cardiomyopathy when no alternative subtype is specified. Check documentation if the cause is stated.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for cardiomyopathy with a documented specific etiology or for other cardiomyopathy types. If the note only says “heart failure” or “cardiac enlargement,” confirm whether dilated cardiomyopathy is actually documented.
Coding tip
Verify whether the provider documents an underlying cause or a different cardiomyopathy type before assigning I42.0.