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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG71.038

G71.038

Billable

Other limb girdle muscular dystrophy

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G71.038 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other limb girdle muscular dystrophy.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Other limb girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) encompasses a group of inherited muscle disorders characterized by progressive weakness and wasting of the proximal muscles, particularly those of the pelvis and shoulder girdles. Unlike the more common forms of LGMD, such as LGMD2A (calpainopathy) or LGMD2B (dysferlinopathy), this code is used when the specific type of limb girdle muscular dystrophy is not classified elsewhere. Patients may present with symptoms such as difficulty climbing stairs, lifting objects, or performing overhead activities. The onset can vary widely, with some individuals experiencing symptoms in childhood while others may not show signs until adulthood. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of clinical evaluation, family history, muscle biopsy, and genetic testing to identify the specific mutation responsible for the condition. Management focuses on supportive care, including physical therapy and assistive devices, as there is currently no cure for muscular dystrophies. Regular monitoring for respiratory and cardiac complications is also essential, as these can significantly impact the quality of life.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of genetic mutations leading to different presentations
  • Need for precise documentation of muscle weakness patterns
  • Differentiation from other muscular dystrophies and myopathies
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with neuromuscular junction disorders

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of muscle weakness and functional limitations
  • Failure to include genetic testing results
  • Misclassification with other muscular dystrophies
  • Lack of comprehensive patient history

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, family history, and results from genetic testing.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with progressive muscle weakness, difficulty with mobility, or family history of muscular dystrophy.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant diagnostic tests are documented to support the diagnosis and coding.

Genetics

Documentation Requirements

Genetic test results, family pedigree, and clinical findings that correlate with the diagnosis.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients referred for genetic counseling after a diagnosis of muscular dystrophy.

Billing Considerations

Documentation should clearly indicate the specific genetic mutation identified, if applicable.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G71.038 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, G71
  • 038 should be used when the specific type of limb girdle muscular dystrophy is not specified
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the use of this code and that it is not used inappropriately for other types of muscular dystrophies or myopathies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G71.038 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 for patients with diagnosed muscular dystrophy.

Documentation Requirements

Document history, examination findings, and any changes in treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Neurology specialists should ensure comprehensive neurological assessments are included.

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, including G71.038, which helps in better tracking and management of these conditions. It has also improved the granularity of data for research and epidemiological studies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of muscular dystrophies, including G71.038, which helps in better tracking and management of these conditions. It has also improved the granularity of data for research and epidemiological studies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of muscular dystrophies, including G71.038, which helps in better tracking and management of these conditions. It has also improved the granularity of data for research and epidemiological studies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Muscular Dystrophy Association

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Muscular Dystrophy Association

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between G71.038 and other limb girdle muscular dystrophy codes?

G71.038 is used for unspecified types of limb girdle muscular dystrophy, while other codes specify particular genetic mutations or forms of the disease.