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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 6: Diseases of the nervous systemG35

G35

Billable

Multiple sclerosis

Chapter 6:Diseases of the nervous system

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 G35 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), leading to demyelination of nerve fibers. The condition is characterized by the formation of plaques in the brain and spinal cord, which disrupts the normal flow of electrical impulses along the nerves. Symptoms can vary widely among individuals and may include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and cognitive changes. The exact cause of MS remains unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors. MS is classified into several types, including relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS), primary progressive MS (PPMS), and secondary progressive MS (SPMS). Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment options include immunomodulatory therapies such as interferons, glatiramer acetate, and newer oral medications that aim to reduce the frequency of relapses and slow disease progression. Management of MS is multidisciplinary, often involving neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, and mental health professionals.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of symptoms and presentations requiring detailed documentation
  • Differentiation from other demyelinating diseases
  • Multiple treatment options and their documentation requirements
  • Potential for comorbid conditions that may complicate coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and treatment response
  • Failure to specify the type of MS
  • Misclassification of MS severity
  • Inconsistent coding of comorbid conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological examination findings, MRI results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial diagnosis of MS, management of relapses, and monitoring of disease progression.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of the type of MS and any comorbid neurological conditions.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, rehabilitation goals, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following exacerbations, management of mobility issues, and coordination of care.

Billing Considerations

Document specific functional limitations and rehabilitation interventions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G35 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G35 should be used when documenting multiple sclerosis
  • It is important to specify the type of MS when applicable and to document any related complications or comorbidities

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G35 When
  • Exclusions include other demyelinating diseases that are coded separately

Related CPT Codes

99214CPT Code

Office or other outpatient visit, established patient

Clinical Scenario

Follow-up visit for MS management.

Documentation Requirements

Document history, examination, and medical decision-making.

Specialty Considerations

Neurology specialists should ensure detailed notes on MS symptoms and treatment.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of multiple sclerosis, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. It has improved the granularity of data for research and healthcare planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of multiple sclerosis, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. It has improved the granularity of data for research and healthcare planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of multiple sclerosis, enabling better tracking of disease prevalence and treatment outcomes. It has improved the granularity of data for research and healthcare planning.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between relapsing-remitting MS and primary progressive MS?

Relapsing-remitting MS is characterized by episodes of neurological symptoms followed by periods of recovery, while primary progressive MS involves a gradual worsening of symptoms without distinct relapses.