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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG37.0

G37.0

Billable

Diffuse sclerosis of central nervous system

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G37.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of diffuse sclerosis of central nervous system.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Diffuse sclerosis of the central nervous system, commonly referred to as multiple sclerosis (MS), is a chronic autoimmune demyelinating disease characterized by the immune system attacking the protective myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the central nervous system (CNS). This leads to inflammation, demyelination, and subsequent neurodegeneration. Symptoms can vary widely and may include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, vision problems, and cognitive changes. The disease often presents in relapsing-remitting forms, where patients experience episodes of neurological symptoms followed by periods of recovery. Over time, many individuals may transition to secondary progressive MS, where symptoms gradually worsen without distinct relapses. The etiology of MS is multifactorial, involving genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and possibly viral infections. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation, MRI findings, and sometimes lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid. Treatment options include immunomodulatory therapies such as interferons, glatiramer acetate, and newer oral agents like fingolimod and dimethyl fumarate, which aim to reduce the frequency of relapses and slow disease progression.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of symptoms and presentations complicating diagnosis
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of clinical findings
  • Differentiation from other demyelinating diseases
  • Potential for multiple co-morbid conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Misclassification of the type of multiple sclerosis
  • Failure to document treatment plans and responses
  • Inconsistent use of diagnostic tests

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, MRI results, and treatment plans must be documented.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Initial diagnosis of MS, management of relapses, and monitoring of disease progression.

Billing Considerations

Neurologists must ensure that all symptoms are documented to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, rehabilitation goals, and progress notes are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Rehabilitation following exacerbations, management of spasticity, and mobility training.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should reflect the impact of MS on daily functioning and the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G37.0 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G37
  • 0 should be used when there is clear documentation of diffuse sclerosis affecting the CNS
  • It is important to differentiate it from other demyelinating diseases and ensure that the clinical picture aligns with the coding criteria

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G37.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99214CPT Code

Established patient office visit, level 4

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits for MS management.

Documentation Requirements

Must document history, examination, and medical decision-making.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists should ensure comprehensive documentation of neurological status.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of multiple sclerosis and related conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. G37.0 provides a clearer picture of the disease's impact on patients and healthcare resources.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of multiple sclerosis and related conditions, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. G37.0 provides a clearer picture of the disease's impact on patients and healthcare resources.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. G37.0 provides a clearer picture of the disease's impact on patients and healthcare resources.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between G35 and G37.0?

G35 is used for multiple sclerosis without specifying diffuse sclerosis, while G37.0 specifically refers to diffuse sclerosis of the CNS, which may encompass a broader range of symptoms and presentations.