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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG52.1

G52.1

Billable

Disorders of glossopharyngeal nerve

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G52.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of disorders of glossopharyngeal nerve.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Disorders of the glossopharyngeal nerve (cranial nerve IX) can manifest as a variety of symptoms due to its role in sensory and motor functions related to the throat, tongue, and autonomic functions of the parotid gland. Patients may experience dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), loss of taste in the posterior third of the tongue, and impaired gag reflex. These disorders can arise from various etiologies, including trauma, compression from tumors, infections, or demyelinating diseases. Neuropathies affecting the glossopharyngeal nerve can lead to significant morbidity, impacting a patient's ability to eat and communicate effectively. Diagnosis often involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and nerve conduction studies to assess the integrity and function of the nerve. Treatment may include addressing the underlying cause, symptomatic management, and rehabilitation therapies to improve swallowing and speech functions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (trauma, tumors, infections)
  • Overlap with other cranial nerve disorders
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation to support diagnosis
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting nerve function

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of the disorder
  • Inadequate linkage between diagnosis and treatment provided
  • Misclassification of symptoms as related to other cranial nerves

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and nerve conduction study results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with dysphagia, loss of taste, or throat pain.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the neurological assessment and any differential diagnoses considered.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Thorough history of swallowing difficulties, physical examination of the throat, and any imaging studies performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with throat tumors or infections presenting with glossopharyngeal nerve dysfunction.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical interventions or treatments that may impact nerve function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G52.1 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include any relevant history, examination findings, and diagnostic tests performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G52.1 When
  • Exclude conditions that are not directly related to glossopharyngeal nerve disorders

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

95870CPT Code

Nerve conduction studies

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate the function of the glossopharyngeal nerve in patients with suspected disorders.

Documentation Requirements

Document the rationale for the study, findings, and any relevant clinical history.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists and otolaryngologists should ensure comprehensive documentation of nerve function.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of glossopharyngeal nerve disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of glossopharyngeal nerve disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of glossopharyngeal nerve disorders, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of glossopharyngeal nerve disorders?

Common symptoms include difficulty swallowing, loss of taste in the posterior third of the tongue, and impaired gag reflex. Patients may also experience throat pain or discomfort.

How is a glossopharyngeal nerve disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical evaluation, imaging studies to identify any structural issues, and nerve conduction studies to assess nerve function.