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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG37.4

G37.4

Billable

Subacute necrotizing myelitis of central nervous system

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G37.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of subacute necrotizing myelitis of central nervous system.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Subacute necrotizing myelitis of the central nervous system (CNS) is a rare inflammatory condition characterized by the destruction of myelin sheaths in the spinal cord and brain. This condition typically presents with rapid onset of neurological deficits, including motor weakness, sensory disturbances, and autonomic dysfunction. It is often associated with viral infections, autoimmune responses, or post-infectious processes. The pathophysiology involves an immune-mediated attack on the myelin, leading to demyelination and subsequent axonal damage. Patients may experience symptoms similar to those seen in multiple sclerosis (MS) or other demyelinating diseases, but the acute nature and specific necrotizing pathology distinguish it from these conditions. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by MRI findings showing lesions in the CNS, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis may reveal oligoclonal bands or elevated protein levels. Treatment often involves immunomodulatory therapies, such as corticosteroids or plasmapheresis, aimed at reducing inflammation and promoting recovery.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating from other demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis.
  • Need for comprehensive clinical documentation to support diagnosis.
  • Potential overlap with other ICD-10 codes related to CNS disorders.
  • Variability in presentation and progression of symptoms.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings.
  • Misdiagnosis due to symptom overlap with other CNS disorders.
  • Failure to document the acute nature of the condition.
  • Lack of supporting imaging or laboratory results.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute neurological deficits and MRI findings suggestive of demyelination.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of symptom onset and progression to support the diagnosis of subacute necrotizing myelitis.

Rehabilitation Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments and rehabilitation goals tailored to neurological deficits.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring rehabilitation after acute demyelinating episodes.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of neurological deficits on daily activities and rehabilitation progress.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G37.4 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's acute and necrotizing nature
  • Include relevant clinical findings and diagnostic tests to support the coding

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G37.4 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 after diagnosis of G37.4.

Documentation Requirements

Document history, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Neurology specialists should ensure detailed neurological assessments are included.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like G37.4, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like G37.4, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like G37.4, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and resource allocation.

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 distinguishes G37.4 from multiple sclerosis?

G37.4 is characterized by a subacute onset and necrotizing pathology, while multiple sclerosis typically presents with a chronic course and relapsing-remitting symptoms.