Discover free eBooks, guides and med spa templates on our new resources page

Book a demo
☰
Why us
ICD Hub / Codes for special purposes (U00–U85) / RA02 - Post COVID-19 condition
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for RA02 - Post COVID-19 condition
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
Use Code

Understanding the Terminology: Post COVID-19 Condition and Its Synonyms

Post COVID-19 condition is widely known by several terms, including Long COVID, postCOVID condition, long-haul COVID, post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 (PASC), and chronic COVID syndrome.

Clinical Overview: What is Post COVID-19 Condition?

Post COVID-19 condition, identified by ICD-11 code RA02, is an infection-associated chronic condition that can occur after SARS-CoV-2 infection. It is characterised by symptoms that persist, relapse, or progress for at least two months following an initial COVID-19 illness, and cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. This condition can affect one or more organ systems.

Recognising the Symptoms of Long COVID

Individuals experiencing post COVID-19 condition may report a wide array of symptoms, often impacting daily functioning. Common manifestations include: * Extreme tiredness, particularly after physical or mental exertion. * Cognitive difficulties, often referred to as "brain fog," affecting memory and concentration. * Respiratory issues such as shortness of breath and cough. * Cardiovascular symptoms like a fast or irregular heartbeat. * Neurological symptoms including headaches, dizziness, and problems with taste or smell. * Digestive disturbances, sleep problems, and mood disorders like anxiety and depression. Symptoms may be new onset after initial recovery or persist from the acute illness, and can fluctuate or relapse over time.

Exploring the Causes and Risk Factors for Post COVID-19 Condition

While the exact mechanisms underlying post COVID-19 condition are still under investigation, several theories are being explored. These include persistent organ damage from the acute infection, a dysregulated inflammatory response, microvascular dysfunction, potential ongoing viral activity, and autoimmune reactions where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues. Risk factors that may increase susceptibility include female sex, experiencing more severe initial COVID-19 illness, having underlying health conditions, and not being vaccinated against COVID-19.

Diagnosing Post COVID-19 Condition

There is currently no single diagnostic test for post COVID-19 condition. Diagnosis is typically made by healthcare professionals based on a patient's history of probable or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection. Key diagnostic criteria include the presence of symptoms that have lasted for at least two months (or typically three months from the onset of COVID-19), and that cannot be attributed to any other medical condition. A thorough clinical evaluation, including medical history, symptom assessment, and potentially various diagnostic tests to rule out other causes, is essential.

Managing Post COVID-19 Condition

Management of post COVID-19 condition adopts a patient-centred approach, focusing on alleviating symptoms and improving overall function. Healthcare providers validate patient symptoms and connect them with appropriate care services. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual's specific symptoms and may involve a multidisciplinary team of specialists. Strategies can include pacing activities to manage fatigue, rehabilitation for respiratory or cognitive issues, and medications to address specific symptoms like pain or sleep disturbances.

ICD-11 Coding for Post COVID-19 Condition

The official ICD-11 code for Post COVID-19 condition is RA02. This code is used to identify patients experiencing a post-viral syndrome following SARS-CoV-2 infection, where symptoms persist for an extended period and are not explained by other diagnoses. It is important for healthcare providers to accurately document the condition and use the RA02 code for billing, statistical tracking, and clinical record-keeping. This code allows for the establishment of a link with COVID-19 without implying the patient is still experiencing acute COVID-19.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification meaning of Post COVID-19 condition?
Post COVID-19 condition is defined in ICD-11 as occurring in individuals with a history of probable or confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, typically three months from the onset of COVID-19 with symptoms, where symptoms last for at least two months and cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. Symptoms may be new, persist, or fluctuate.
What is the coding usage for ICD-11 code RA02, Post COVID-19 condition?
The ICD-11 code RA02 is an optional code intended to establish a link with a preceding COVID-19 infection. It should not be used for cases where the patient is still presenting with acute COVID-19.
How is postcoordination applied to the ICD-11 code RA02 for Post COVID-19 condition?
Postcoordination allows for the addition of Stem and/or Extension codes to RA02 to form a cluster code, providing further detail on the manifestations of the Post COVID-19 condition.
What is the scope of the ICD-11 code RA02 for Post COVID-19 condition?
The ICD-11 code RA02 is used for conditions that occur after an acute COVID-19 infection and cannot be explained by an alternative diagnosis. It is not for cases where COVID-19 is still actively present.
×