Acute necrotizing hemorrhagic encephalopathy
ICD-10 G04.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute necrotizing hemorrhagic encephalopathy.
Acute necrotizing hemorrhagic encephalopathy (ANHE) is a rare but severe neurological condition characterized by rapid onset of encephalopathy, often following a viral infection. It is marked by extensive necrosis and hemorrhage in the brain, particularly affecting the thalamus and brainstem. Clinically, patients may present with altered mental status, seizures, and focal neurological deficits. The condition is often associated with viral infections, such as influenza or other respiratory viruses, and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Diagnosis typically involves neuroimaging, such as MRI, which reveals characteristic findings of bilateral thalamic lesions and hemorrhagic changes. Management is primarily supportive, focusing on controlling symptoms and preventing complications. Early recognition and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes, as the rapid progression of the disease can lead to severe neurological impairment or death.
Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with acute neurological symptoms following viral infections.
Ensure that all neurological deficits and imaging findings are documented to support the diagnosis.
Documentation of the infectious etiology, laboratory results, and treatment response.
Patients with encephalopathy following viral infections requiring infectious disease consultation.
Document the timeline of infection and neurological symptoms to establish causality.
Used to evaluate for hemorrhagic changes in the brain.
Document indications for imaging and findings.
Neurology should correlate imaging findings with clinical symptoms.
Common causes include viral infections, particularly influenza and other respiratory viruses, which can trigger an inflammatory response leading to this condition.
