What are the principal and secondary ICD-10-CM codes assigned for a patient discharged following an admission for acute appendicitis who is also HIV positive?

• A. K35.80, Z21
• B. I21.09, I10
• C. D68.00, G43.611
• D. C61, D63.0

Answer: (A)

In the case of a patient discharged after an admission for acute appendicitis who is also HIV positive, the principal ICD-10-CM code for the condition being treated would accurately reflect the acute appendicitis diagnosis, while the secondary code relates to the chronic condition of HIV.

The principal code, K35.80, is designated for acute appendicitis, specifically indicating a case of appendicitis without complication. This is a focused and precise code that captures the primary reason for the patient's hospitalization.

The secondary code, Z21, corresponds to HIV status. It is used to denote asymptomatic HIV infection, affirming the patient's HIV positive status without implying any current manifestations or complications stemming from the infection. Utilizing this code is essential in communicating the patient's underlying condition while recognizing that it is not the reason for the acute care provided.

This combination ensures a comprehensive overview of the patient's clinical picture: addressing both the acute surgical issue (appendicitis) and the chronic health status (HIV), which is important for ongoing care and management.