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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG37.5

G37.5

Billable

Concentric sclerosis [Balo] of central nervous system

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G37.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of concentric sclerosis [balo] of central nervous system.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Concentric sclerosis, also known as Balo's concentric sclerosis, is a rare form of demyelinating disease characterized by concentric layers of demyelination and remyelination in the central nervous system. It is considered a variant of multiple sclerosis (MS) and is often associated with atypical clinical presentations. Patients may experience neurological deficits similar to those seen in MS, including motor and sensory disturbances, visual impairment, and cognitive dysfunction. The pathophysiology involves the formation of concentric rings of demyelination, which can be identified through MRI imaging. Unlike typical MS, which presents with disseminated lesions, Balo's concentric sclerosis features a more localized pattern of demyelination. The etiology remains unclear, but it is believed to involve autoimmune mechanisms. Treatment options are limited and may include immunomodulatory therapies such as corticosteroids, interferons, or monoclonal antibodies, aimed at reducing inflammation and promoting remyelination. Due to its rarity, clinical management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including neurologists, rehabilitation specialists, and mental health professionals.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Rarity of the condition leading to limited familiarity among coders
  • Overlap with other demyelinating diseases complicating diagnosis
  • Variability in clinical presentation requiring detailed documentation
  • Potential for misdiagnosis with other forms of multiple sclerosis

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of clinical findings
  • Lack of MRI results supporting diagnosis
  • Inconsistent use of terminology in medical records
  • Failure to document treatment response or progression

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological examination findings, MRI results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with atypical neurological symptoms, requiring differential diagnosis from other demyelinating diseases.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clarity in documenting the unique features of concentric sclerosis to avoid confusion with other MS variants.

Radiology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed imaging reports highlighting the characteristic concentric lesions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

MRI evaluations of patients suspected of having demyelinating diseases.

Billing Considerations

Radiologists should clearly describe the imaging findings to support the diagnosis of G37.5.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G37.5 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, including clinical findings and imaging results
  • 5 should be used when the diagnosis of concentric sclerosis is confirmed, and other demyelinating conditions are ruled out

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G37.5 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

70553CPT Code

MRI brain with and without contrast

Clinical Scenario

Used to confirm the diagnosis of G37.5 through imaging.

Documentation Requirements

MRI reports must clearly indicate the presence of concentric lesions.

Specialty Considerations

Radiologists should provide detailed descriptions of findings to support coding.

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 G37.5, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for rare diseases.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like G37.5, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for rare diseases.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like G37.5, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking for rare diseases.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    National Multiple Sclerosis Society

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes G37.5 from other forms of multiple sclerosis?

G37.5 is characterized by concentric layers of demyelination, which is a distinct pathological finding not typically seen in other forms of multiple sclerosis.