Drug induced myotonia
ICD-10 G71.14 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of drug induced myotonia.
Drug induced myotonia is a neuromuscular condition characterized by prolonged muscle contractions and delayed relaxation following voluntary muscle activity, which is precipitated by certain medications. This condition can arise from various drug classes, including anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and muscle relaxants. The pathophysiology involves alterations in ion channel function, particularly sodium and chloride channels, leading to abnormal excitability of muscle fibers. Patients may present with symptoms such as muscle stiffness, cramping, and weakness, which can mimic other neuromuscular disorders like myasthenia gravis or muscular dystrophies. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical history, including medication review, electromyography (EMG) studies, and sometimes muscle biopsy. Management focuses on discontinuing the offending agent and symptomatic treatment, which may include physical therapy and medications to alleviate muscle stiffness. Understanding the nuances of drug-induced myotonia is crucial for accurate diagnosis and coding, as it can overlap with other myopathies and neuromuscular junction disorders.
Comprehensive history of symptoms, medication review, EMG results, and clinical findings.
Patients presenting with muscle stiffness after starting new medications.
Ensure clear documentation of the timeline between drug initiation and symptom onset.
Functional assessments, treatment plans, and response to therapy.
Rehabilitation of patients with drug-induced myotonia post-medication adjustment.
Documenting the impact of myotonia on functional abilities and therapy outcomes.
Used to confirm the diagnosis of myotonia and assess muscle function.
EMG results must be documented in the patient's record.
Neurologists should ensure that the EMG findings correlate with the clinical presentation.
Common medications include certain anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and muscle relaxants. A thorough medication review is essential to identify potential culprits.
