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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG71.03

G71.03

Billable

Limb girdle muscular dystrophies

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G71.03 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of limb girdle muscular dystrophies.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Limb girdle muscular dystrophies (LGMD) are a group of inherited disorders characterized by progressive weakness and wasting of the proximal muscles, particularly those around the hips and shoulders. These conditions are caused by genetic mutations that affect muscle proteins, leading to muscle degeneration and weakness. LGMD can be classified into several subtypes, each associated with different genetic defects. Symptoms typically begin in childhood or early adulthood, but onset can vary widely. Patients may experience difficulty with activities such as climbing stairs, lifting objects, or raising their arms. Diagnosis is often confirmed through genetic testing, muscle biopsy, and electromyography. Management focuses on maintaining mobility and function, with physical therapy playing a crucial role. While there is currently no cure for LGMD, ongoing research aims to develop targeted therapies that address the underlying genetic causes of these disorders.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of genetic subtypes complicating diagnosis
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of symptoms and progression
  • Potential overlap with other neuromuscular disorders
  • Variability in clinical presentation among patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of genetic testing results
  • Failure to specify the subtype of LGMD
  • Misclassification with other muscular dystrophies
  • Lack of detailed clinical notes on muscle weakness progression

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, genetic testing results, and progression of symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with muscle weakness, difficulty in mobility, and family history of muscular dystrophy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of muscle strength testing and any referrals to genetic counseling.

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Documentation Requirements

Functional assessments, therapy progress notes, and patient-reported outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients requiring rehabilitation services to maintain mobility and function.

Billing Considerations

Document specific therapeutic interventions and their impact on patient function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G71.03 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the condition's severity, duration, and any associated complications
  • Include genetic testing results when applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G71.03 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

Muscle biopsy CPT codeCPT Code

Muscle biopsy

Clinical Scenario

When a muscle biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis of LGMD.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for the biopsy, findings, and results.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the procedure is linked to the diagnosis of LGMD.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of muscular dystrophies, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. G71.03 provides a distinct classification for limb girdle muscular dystrophies, facilitating better patient management and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of muscular dystrophies, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. G71.03 provides a distinct classification for limb girdle muscular dystrophies, facilitating better patient management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of muscular dystrophies, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment tracking. G71.03 provides a distinct classification for limb girdle muscular dystrophies, facilitating better patient management and research.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Muscular Dystrophy Association

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Muscular Dystrophy Association

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary cause of limb girdle muscular dystrophies?

Limb girdle muscular dystrophies are primarily caused by genetic mutations affecting proteins necessary for muscle function, leading to muscle weakness and degeneration.