Todd's paralysis (postepileptic)
ICD-10 G83.84 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of todd's paralysis (postepileptic).
Todd's paralysis, also known as postictal paralysis, is a temporary neurological condition that can occur following a seizure, particularly in individuals with epilepsy. It is characterized by weakness or paralysis in a part of the body that corresponds to the area of the brain affected during the seizure. This condition typically resolves within hours to days, but the duration can vary based on the individual and the severity of the seizure. Todd's paralysis is most commonly observed in patients with focal seizures, where the seizure activity is localized to one hemisphere of the brain. The affected area may lead to transient motor deficits, which can mimic other forms of paralysis such as hemiplegia or hemiparesis. It is crucial for healthcare providers to differentiate Todd's paralysis from other neurological conditions, such as stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), to ensure appropriate management and treatment. Understanding the pathophysiology of Todd's paralysis is essential for accurate diagnosis and coding, as it involves the temporary disruption of motor pathways due to postictal changes in brain activity.
Detailed seizure history, neurological examination findings, and duration of paralysis.
Patients presenting with postictal weakness after a seizure episode.
Ensure clear documentation of the type of seizure and any prior history of epilepsy.
Immediate assessment of neurological status and seizure history.
Patients arriving at the emergency department post-seizure with weakness.
Rapid differentiation from stroke or other acute neurological events.
Used for follow-up visits after seizure episodes.
Document seizure frequency, type, and any postictal symptoms.
Neurology specialists should ensure comprehensive seizure history is included.
Todd's paralysis typically lasts from a few minutes to several hours, but in some cases, it may persist for days.
Todd's paralysis is associated with a recent seizure and resolves over time, while stroke symptoms are usually sudden and do not improve quickly.
