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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG61.0

G61.0

Billable

Guillain-Barre syndrome

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G61.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of guillain-barre syndrome.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is an acute inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy characterized by rapid onset of muscle weakness and areflexia, often following a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection. The condition is believed to be an autoimmune response where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to demyelination and subsequent nerve conduction block. Patients typically present with symmetrical weakness that can progress to paralysis, often starting in the legs and ascending to the upper body. Diagnosis is supported by clinical findings, cerebrospinal fluid analysis showing albuminocytologic dissociation, and electrodiagnostic studies demonstrating demyelination. GBS can lead to significant morbidity, requiring close monitoring and supportive care, including respiratory support in severe cases. Recovery can take weeks to months, but some patients may experience residual weakness or other long-term effects.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating GBS from other types of neuropathies
  • Need for comprehensive clinical documentation
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other conditions
  • Variability in presentation and progression

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to include results from electrodiagnostic studies
  • Misdiagnosis due to symptom overlap with other conditions
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on patient progress

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, results of electrodiagnostic studies, and clinical history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute onset of weakness, history of recent infections, and abnormal nerve conduction studies.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the acute nature and progression of symptoms, as well as any complications.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of functional status, rehabilitation goals, and progress notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients undergoing rehabilitation post-GBS for strength and mobility improvement.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the impact of GBS on daily activities and the need for assistive devices.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G61.0 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the clinical presentation and diagnostic tests
  • 0 should be used when the diagnosis of Guillain
  • Barre syndrome is confirmed based on clinical and electrodiagnostic findings

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G61.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

95870CPT Code

Nerve conduction studies

Clinical Scenario

Used to confirm diagnosis of GBS through electrodiagnostic testing.

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific nerves tested and results.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists should ensure comprehensive documentation of findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of Guillain-Barre syndrome, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation to support the diagnosis.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of Guillain-Barre syndrome, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation to support the diagnosis.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It emphasizes the need for detailed documentation to support the diagnosis.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Guillain-Barre Syndrome Foundation

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Guillain-Barre Syndrome Foundation

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of Guillain-Barre syndrome?

Common symptoms include rapid onset of muscle weakness, areflexia, tingling sensations, and in severe cases, paralysis. Symptoms often start in the legs and can ascend to the upper body.