I02 refers to Rheumatic chorea, which are complications that follow untreated or poorly treated streptococcal throat infections. These conditions are part of acute rheumatic fever and may involve systemic inflammation, joint pain, cardiac symptoms, or involuntary movements depending on the code subtype.

Symptoms

Fever and fatigue – Common in all rheumatic fever forms
Migratory joint pain – Seen in both I00 and I01
Shortness of breath or chest pain – Indicators of heart involvement (I01)
Heart murmur or valve dysfunction – Linked to rheumatic carditis (I01)
Involuntary movements – Typical of Sydenham chorea (I02)
Behavioral changes – May accompany I02 neurologic involvement
Skin nodules or rash – Can be present in systemic rheumatic inflammation

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Rheumatic chorea involves the Jones Criteria, which combine clinical signs (arthritis, carditis, chorea), ECG findings, echocardiography, throat cultures, and anti-streptolysin O titers. Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent long-term heart damage.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code I02 is used by cardiologists, pediatricians, internists, and neurologists. It supports documentation for acute rheumatic fever management, cardiac monitoring, antibiotic prophylaxis, and neurologic care where chorea is present.

Related Codes

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code I02?
A: It refers to Rheumatic chorea, resulting from autoimmune response to streptococcal infection, affecting joints, heart, or nervous system.

Q2: Is heart involvement always present?
A: No—only I01 includes heart inflammation (carditis). I00 does not involve the heart, and I02 primarily affects the nervous system.

Q3: What is Sydenham chorea (I02)?
A: A movement disorder caused by autoimmune response post-streptococcal infection, leading to jerky, involuntary movements.

Q4: How are these conditions treated?
A: With antibiotics (penicillin), anti-inflammatories, long-term prophylaxis, and, in some cases, steroids or anticonvulsants.

Q5: Can rheumatic fever cause long-term damage?
A: Yes—especially if carditis occurs, it can lead to rheumatic heart disease with valve scarring and dysfunction.

Conclusion

ICD10 code I02 ensures accurate tracking and treatment of Rheumatic chorea, helping prevent serious complications through early diagnosis, antibiotic therapy, and long-term monitoring where cardiac or neurologic risks are present.