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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG43.4

G43.4

Billable

Hemiplegic migraine

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G43.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of hemiplegic migraine.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Hemiplegic migraine is a rare and severe form of migraine characterized by temporary paralysis or weakness on one side of the body (hemiplegia) that can occur before, during, or after a migraine attack. This condition is often accompanied by typical migraine symptoms such as severe headache, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. The hemiplegic symptoms can mimic those of a stroke, making it crucial for healthcare providers to differentiate between the two. Hemiplegic migraine can be familial, meaning it runs in families, or sporadic, occurring without a family history. The pathophysiology involves genetic mutations affecting ion channels, leading to altered neuronal excitability and vascular changes. Triggers for hemiplegic migraine can include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, and environmental factors. Preventive treatments may involve medications such as beta-blockers, anticonvulsants, and calcium channel blockers, while acute treatments may include triptans or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Due to its complexity and potential for misdiagnosis, accurate coding and thorough documentation are essential.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other types of migraines and stroke-like symptoms
  • Need for detailed patient history and family history documentation
  • Potential for misdiagnosis leading to incorrect coding
  • Variability in presentation and triggers among patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of hemiplegic symptoms
  • Failure to document family history of migraines
  • Misclassification of migraine type
  • Lack of clear treatment plans and responses

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, family history of migraines, and treatment response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with unilateral weakness during migraine attacks, family history of hemiplegic migraines.

Billing Considerations

Neurologists must ensure clear differentiation from stroke and document all neurological assessments.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, including migraine triggers and previous treatments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent headaches and episodes of unilateral weakness.

Billing Considerations

Primary care providers should refer to specialists for complex cases and document all referrals.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G43.4 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, G43
  • 4 should be used when a patient presents with hemiplegic symptoms associated with migraine
  • It is important to document the duration and severity of symptoms, as well as any associated features

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G43.4 When
  • Exclusion criteria include other types of migraines and conditions that may mimic hemiplegic symptoms

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99214CPT Code

Established patient office visit, level 4

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits for patients with hemiplegic migraine.

Documentation Requirements

Document history of present illness, review of systems, and treatment response.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists may require more detailed neurological assessments.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hemiplegic migraine, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better understanding the condition's prevalence and management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hemiplegic migraine, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better understanding the condition's prevalence and management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of hemiplegic migraine, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better understanding the condition's prevalence and management.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Migraine Foundation

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Migraine Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common triggers for hemiplegic migraine?

Common triggers include stress, hormonal changes, certain foods (like aged cheeses and processed meats), and environmental factors such as bright lights or strong odors.