Acute disseminated demyelination, unspecified
ICD-10 G36.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute disseminated demyelination, unspecified.
Acute disseminated demyelination (ADD) is a neurological condition characterized by the rapid onset of demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS). It is often considered a monophasic illness, meaning it typically occurs as a single episode rather than a recurrent condition. The most common presentation of ADD is in children and young adults, often following a viral infection. Symptoms may include visual disturbances, motor weakness, sensory changes, and cognitive dysfunction. The pathophysiology involves an autoimmune response leading to the destruction of myelin, the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers, which disrupts normal nerve conduction. While ADD can be associated with multiple sclerosis (MS), it is distinct in that it does not necessarily lead to the chronic, relapsing nature of MS. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by MRI findings showing lesions in the CNS, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis may reveal oligoclonal bands. Treatment typically involves high-dose corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and promote recovery. Immunomodulatory therapies may be considered in cases with significant neurological deficits or recurrent episodes.
Detailed neurological examination findings, MRI results, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with acute neurological deficits following viral infections.
Ensure clarity in distinguishing between acute and chronic demyelinating conditions.
Developmental history, acute symptom onset details, and family history of demyelinating diseases.
Children with sudden onset of neurological symptoms post-infection.
Consider age-related variations in symptom presentation and recovery.
Used to confirm the presence of demyelinating lesions in patients with acute neurological symptoms.
MRI reports must be included in the patient's medical record.
Neurologists should ensure that MRI findings correlate with clinical symptoms.
G36.9 refers to acute disseminated demyelination, which is typically a single episode, while G35 refers to multiple sclerosis, a chronic condition characterized by recurrent episodes of demyelination.
