R68.13

Billable

Apparent life threatening event in infant (ALTE)

This code does not map to an HCC category in any model (V28, V24, ESRD, RxHCC).

What This Code Means

An episode where an infant appears to stop breathing, becomes unresponsive, or shows other life-threatening symptoms that are frightening to caregivers but may resolve on their own.

Coding Tips

•Document the specific symptoms observed during the ALTE episode (apnea, color change, loss of muscle tone) for clarity
•Ensure this code is used only for infants and distinguish from actual respiratory failure or other confirmed diagnoses

Use Additional Code

code(s) for associated signs and symptoms if no confirmed diagnosis established, or if signs and symptoms are not associated routinely with confirmed diagnosis, or provide additional information for cause of ALTE

Code First

confirmed diagnosis, if known

Code Hierarchy

└R68Other general symptoms and signs └R68.1Nonspecific symptoms peculiar to infancy └R68.13Apparent life threatening event in infant (ALTE)

└R68.13Apparent life threatening event in infant (ALTE)