R509 - Fever of unknown cause - when you have an elevated body temperature but the specific reason hasn't been identified yet

International Classification of Diseases

Last updated: 10/3/2025

What is a ICD-10 Code?

ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision) codes are used to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures recorded in association with hospital care. These codes provide a standardized way to track health conditions and their treatment outcomes.

Detailed Description

This code is used when you have a fever (elevated body temperature above normal) but your healthcare provider hasn't yet determined what's causing it. Fever is your body's natural response to infection or illness, but many different conditions can cause fever. During your office visit, your doctor will work to identify the underlying cause through examination, questions about your symptoms, and possibly additional tests. The fever itself is a symptom rather than a specific disease, so finding and treating the root cause is important for your recovery.

Additional Information

This is a symptom code used when fever is present but the underlying cause hasn't been determined. The cost range reflects a typical established patient office visit. Additional diagnostic tests or treatments may incur separate charges.

Category

Symptoms and Signs

Medical Specialty

General Medicine/Primary Care

Expected Costs

We expect this to normally be in the range of:

$150 - $400

This is an estimate based on typical billing patterns. Your actual cost may vary depending on your insurance coverage, provider location, and specific circumstances.

What's Required Before This

  • Office visit with established patient

What to Expect After

  • Monitor temperature regularly
  • Stay hydrated and rest
  • Return if fever persists or worsens
  • Follow up for additional testing if needed
  • Take prescribed medications as directed

Why Understanding This Code Matters

On Your Medical Bill

This code appears on your medical bills to identify the specific service, procedure, drug, or medical diagnosis you received. Understanding what it means helps you verify you're being charged correctly and know what to expect.

For Your Health

Knowing what this code represents helps you understand your treatment plan, ask better questions during appointments, and track your healthcare journey more effectively.

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