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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG36.1

G36.1

Billable

Acute and subacute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis [Hurst]

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G36.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute and subacute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis [hurst].

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute and subacute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis, also known as Hurst's disease, is a rare neurological condition characterized by the rapid onset of inflammation and hemorrhage in the white matter of the brain. This condition is often associated with viral infections, particularly those affecting the central nervous system, and can lead to significant neurological deficits. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as altered mental status, seizures, focal neurological deficits, and signs of increased intracranial pressure. The pathophysiology involves demyelination and necrosis of the white matter, which can be exacerbated by underlying conditions such as multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating diseases. Diagnosis typically requires neuroimaging, such as MRI, which may reveal characteristic lesions, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis to identify inflammatory markers. Treatment often involves immunomodulatory therapies, including corticosteroids and antiviral agents, aimed at reducing inflammation and managing symptoms. The prognosis varies, with some patients experiencing recovery while others may have persistent neurological impairments.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other demyelinating diseases
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of clinical presentation
  • Potential overlap with multiple sclerosis coding
  • Variability in treatment protocols and response

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical symptoms
  • Failure to include neuroimaging results
  • Misclassification with other demyelinating diseases
  • Lack of clear treatment documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including symptom onset, neurological examination findings, and imaging results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute neurological deficits, seizures, or altered mental status.

Billing Considerations

Ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's history and any prior demyelinating conditions.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Clear imaging reports detailing findings consistent with hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

MRI findings in patients with suspected acute neurological conditions.

Billing Considerations

Radiologists should correlate imaging findings with clinical symptoms for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G36.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G36
  • 1 should be used when the clinical presentation aligns with acute or subacute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G36.1 When
  • Exclusion criteria include conditions that do not involve hemorrhagic changes or are chronic in nature

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

70450CPT Code

CT scan of the head

Clinical Scenario

Used to evaluate acute neurological symptoms.

Documentation Requirements

Document indications for imaging and findings.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists should correlate imaging results with clinical symptoms.

70553CPT Code

MRI brain with contrast

Clinical Scenario

Indicated for suspected acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed report of findings and clinical correlation.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure imaging is performed in a timely manner to guide treatment.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acute conditions like G36.1, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better resource allocation and management of patient care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acute conditions like G36.1, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better resource allocation and management of patient care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acute conditions like G36.1, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better resource allocation and management of patient care.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key symptoms of acute and subacute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis?

Key symptoms include sudden onset of seizures, altered mental status, focal neurological deficits, and signs of increased intracranial pressure.

How is G36.1 differentiated from multiple sclerosis?

G36.1 is characterized by acute symptoms and hemorrhagic changes on imaging, while multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition with relapsing-remitting episodes.