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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG37.8

G37.8

Billable

Other specified demyelinating diseases of central nervous system

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G37.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified demyelinating diseases of central nervous system.

Key Diagnostic Point:

G37.8 encompasses a variety of demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) that do not fall under more specific categories such as multiple sclerosis (MS). These conditions are characterized by the loss of myelin, the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers, which can lead to a range of neurological symptoms. Commonly associated with autoimmune processes, these diseases can manifest in various forms, including acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM), neuromyelitis optica (NMO), and other atypical demyelinating syndromes. Patients may present with symptoms such as visual disturbances, motor weakness, sensory changes, and cognitive dysfunction. The diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, MRI findings, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Treatment typically includes immunomodulatory therapies aimed at reducing inflammation and preventing further demyelination. Understanding the nuances of these conditions is crucial for accurate coding and appropriate patient management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of conditions included under this code
  • Need for precise clinical documentation to differentiate from other demyelinating diseases
  • Potential overlap with other neurological conditions
  • Variability in treatment protocols and response

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of specific demyelinating condition
  • Misuse of G37.8 when a more specific code is applicable
  • Failure to document treatment response or progression
  • Inconsistent clinical findings reported

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including symptom onset, progression, and diagnostic tests performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis of atypical demyelinating syndromes, management of relapses, and monitoring treatment efficacy.

Billing Considerations

Neurologists must ensure that all relevant diagnostic criteria are met and documented to support the use of G37.8.

Neuroimmunology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive records of immunological assessments and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of patients with suspected neuromyelitis optica or other rare demyelinating diseases.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should include immunological markers and response to immunomodulatory therapies.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G37.8 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G37
  • 8 should be used when a specific demyelinating disease is not identified
  • Coders must ensure that the clinical documentation supports the diagnosis and that the condition is not better classified under a more specific code

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G37.8 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 in patients with chronic demyelinating diseases.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists should document the complexity of the visit to justify the level of service.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of demyelinating diseases, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions. G37.8 provides a necessary code for atypical presentations that do not fit neatly into other categories.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of demyelinating diseases, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions. G37.8 provides a necessary code for atypical presentations that do not fit neatly into other categories.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of demyelinating diseases, improving the ability to track and manage these conditions. G37.8 provides a necessary code for atypical presentations that do not fit neatly into other categories.

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 conditions are included under G37.8?

G37.8 includes various demyelinating diseases of the CNS that are not classified elsewhere, such as atypical demyelinating syndromes and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis.

When should I use G37.8 instead of G35?

Use G37.8 when the specific demyelinating disease is not identified as multiple sclerosis, which is coded under G35.