Alcoholic myopathy
ICD-10 G72.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of alcoholic myopathy.
Alcoholic myopathy is a muscle disorder associated with chronic alcohol consumption, characterized by muscle weakness and atrophy. It primarily affects skeletal muscle and can present with symptoms such as muscle pain, tenderness, and weakness, particularly in the proximal muscles. The condition is thought to result from the toxic effects of alcohol on muscle fibers, leading to degeneration and impaired muscle function. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, patient history, and laboratory tests, including serum creatine kinase levels, which may be elevated. Muscle biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other myopathies. Alcoholic myopathy can occur in individuals with varying levels of alcohol consumption, but it is more prevalent in those with a history of heavy drinking. Treatment focuses on abstinence from alcohol, nutritional support, and physical therapy to improve muscle strength and function. Recovery can be variable, with some patients experiencing significant improvement while others may have persistent weakness.
Detailed neurological examination findings, history of alcohol use, and any associated symptoms.
Patients presenting with muscle weakness and a history of alcohol abuse.
Consideration of differential diagnoses such as myasthenia gravis and other neuromuscular junction disorders.
Assessment of functional status, rehabilitation goals, and progress notes.
Patients undergoing rehabilitation for muscle weakness due to alcohol-related myopathy.
Focus on functional improvement and the impact of alcohol cessation on recovery.
Used for follow-up visits for patients with alcoholic myopathy.
Document history of present illness, review of systems, and physical exam findings.
Neurology or PM&R specialists should focus on functional assessments.
The primary cause of alcoholic myopathy is chronic alcohol consumption, which leads to muscle fiber degeneration and impaired muscle function.
