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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG12.0

G12.0

Billable

Infantile spinal muscular atrophy, type I [Werdnig-Hoffman]

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G12.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of infantile spinal muscular atrophy, type i [werdnig-hoffman].

Key Diagnostic Point:

Infantile spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type I, also known as Werdnig-Hoffman disease, is a severe genetic disorder characterized by the degeneration of motor neurons in the spinal cord and brainstem, leading to progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. This condition is caused by mutations in the SMN1 gene, which is essential for the survival of motor neurons. Symptoms typically present within the first six months of life and include hypotonia, weakness, and difficulty with feeding and breathing. Affected infants may exhibit a 'floppy' appearance due to muscle weakness and may have difficulty achieving developmental milestones such as sitting or crawling. The prognosis for SMA type I is poor, with many infants not surviving beyond the age of two years without intervention. Advances in treatment, including gene therapy and supportive care, have improved outcomes for some patients, but the condition remains a significant challenge in pediatric neurology. Early diagnosis through genetic testing and clinical evaluation is crucial for management and family counseling.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Genetic testing requirements for accurate diagnosis
  • Differentiation from other types of spinal muscular atrophy
  • Need for comprehensive clinical documentation
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of genetic testing results
  • Failure to document clinical symptoms and progression
  • Misclassification of SMA type I with other types
  • Lack of interdisciplinary notes from specialists

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatric Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical history, genetic testing results, and multidisciplinary care notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis confirmation, management of respiratory support, and coordination of care with physical therapy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the severity of symptoms and any interventions provided.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results, family history, and counseling notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Genetic counseling for families, interpretation of genetic tests, and discussion of treatment options.

Billing Considerations

Accurate coding requires clear documentation of genetic findings and their implications for treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G12.0 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, including genetic testing results and clinical manifestations

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G12.0 When
  • Exclude conditions that do not meet the criteria for SMA type I

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

81229CPT Code

SMN1 gene analysis

Clinical Scenario

Used for confirming diagnosis of SMA type I.

Documentation Requirements

Genetic testing results must be documented in the patient's medical record.

Specialty Considerations

Genetic specialists should ensure accurate coding based on test results.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of SMA, facilitating better tracking of genetic conditions and improving the ability to analyze treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of SMA, facilitating better tracking of genetic conditions and improving the ability to analyze treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more precise coding of SMA, facilitating better tracking of genetic conditions and improving the ability to analyze treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Spinal Muscular Atrophy Foundation

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Spinal Muscular Atrophy Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of infantile spinal muscular atrophy?

Infantile spinal muscular atrophy is primarily caused by mutations in the SMN1 gene, which is crucial for motor neuron survival.