Neuralgic amyotrophy
ICD-10 G54.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of neuralgic amyotrophy.
Neuralgic amyotrophy, also known as Parsonage-Turner syndrome, is a neurological condition characterized by sudden onset of shoulder pain followed by weakness and atrophy of the shoulder and arm muscles. The condition is believed to result from inflammation of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that sends signals from the spine to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Patients typically experience severe pain in the shoulder region, which may be unilateral, followed by muscle weakness that can affect the deltoid, supraspinatus, and infraspinatus muscles. The exact etiology remains unclear, but it may be associated with viral infections, trauma, or autoimmune responses. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) to assess nerve function and rule out other neuropathies. Recovery can take weeks to months, and while some patients may regain full function, others may experience persistent weakness or pain.
Detailed clinical notes on symptom onset, pain characteristics, and neurological examination findings.
Patients presenting with acute shoulder pain and subsequent weakness in the arm.
Ensure that nerve conduction studies and EMG results are clearly documented to support the diagnosis.
Rehabilitation progress notes, including functional assessments and treatment plans.
Patients undergoing rehabilitation for muscle weakness following neuralgic amyotrophy.
Document the patient's functional limitations and response to therapy to justify ongoing treatment.
Used to confirm diagnosis of neuralgic amyotrophy.
Results of the EMG must be documented, including findings of denervation.
Neurologists should ensure that the EMG findings correlate with clinical symptoms.
Common symptoms include sudden shoulder pain, followed by weakness and atrophy of the shoulder and arm muscles. Patients may also experience sensory changes in the affected area.
