Muscular dystrophy
ICD-10 G71.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of muscular dystrophy.
Muscular dystrophy (MD) refers to a group of inherited disorders characterized by progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. The condition is caused by mutations in genes responsible for the structure and function of muscle fibers. The most common form, Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), primarily affects boys and manifests in early childhood with symptoms such as difficulty walking, muscle wasting, and eventual loss of ambulation. Other forms include Becker muscular dystrophy, myotonic dystrophy, and limb-girdle muscular dystrophy, each with varying degrees of severity and age of onset. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, genetic testing, and muscle biopsy. Management focuses on maintaining mobility and function, with interventions such as physical therapy, orthopedic devices, and, in some cases, corticosteroids to slow progression. Understanding the specific type of muscular dystrophy is crucial for appropriate treatment and coding, as each subtype may have unique implications for patient care and resource utilization.
Detailed clinical history, neurological examination findings, and results of genetic testing.
Diagnosis of muscular dystrophy in pediatric patients, management of symptoms in adults.
Documentation must clearly differentiate between types of muscular dystrophy and related neuromuscular disorders.
Genetic test results, family history, and inheritance patterns.
Counseling families about genetic risks and implications of muscular dystrophy.
Accurate coding requires understanding of genetic mutations associated with specific dystrophies.
Used for follow-up visits for muscular dystrophy management.
Document history of present illness, review of systems, and treatment plan.
Neurology specialists should ensure comprehensive neurological assessments are included.
Muscular dystrophy is a specific group of inherited disorders characterized by progressive muscle degeneration, while myopathy is a broader term that refers to any disease of muscle tissue, including acquired conditions.
