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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesG93.49

G93.49

Billable

Other encephalopathy

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

Code Description

ICD-10 G93.49 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other encephalopathy.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Other encephalopathy (G93.49) encompasses a variety of neurological conditions characterized by diffuse brain dysfunction that does not fall under more specific categories of encephalopathy. This condition can arise from various etiologies, including metabolic disturbances, toxic exposures, infections, and hypoxic-ischemic events. Patients may present with a range of symptoms, including altered mental status, cognitive deficits, seizures, and autonomic dysfunction. Pain syndromes may also be associated, particularly if the encephalopathy is secondary to conditions like chronic pain syndromes or fibromyalgia. Autonomic disorders can manifest as dysregulation of heart rate, blood pressure, and gastrointestinal function, complicating the clinical picture. Hydrocephalus, or the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid, may also be a contributing factor, leading to increased intracranial pressure and further neurological impairment. Accurate diagnosis often requires comprehensive clinical evaluation, including imaging studies and laboratory tests, to identify underlying causes and guide treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes leading to encephalopathy.
  • Overlap with other neurological conditions.
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation to support diagnosis.
  • Potential for multiple co-existing conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of the underlying cause.
  • Inconsistent symptom descriptions.
  • Failure to document co-existing conditions.
  • Lack of clarity in treatment plans.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and laboratory tests.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with confusion, seizures, or altered mental status.

Billing Considerations

Ensure all potential etiologies are explored and documented.

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive medical history, including medication review and metabolic assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with systemic illnesses presenting with neurological symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Document any metabolic or toxic causes thoroughly.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use G93.49 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include any relevant laboratory or imaging results that substantiate the diagnosis of encephalopathy

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use G93.49 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99214CPT Code

Office or other outpatient visit, established patient, moderate complexity

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits for patients diagnosed with encephalopathy.

Documentation Requirements

Document history, examination, and medical decision-making.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the complexity of the visit is justified.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of encephalopathy, improving the ability to capture the nuances of the condition and its underlying causes, which can lead to better patient management and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of encephalopathy, improving the ability to capture the nuances of the condition and its underlying causes, which can lead to better patient management and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of encephalopathy, improving the ability to capture the nuances of the condition and its underlying causes, which can lead to better patient management and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of G93.49?

Common causes include metabolic disorders, toxic exposures, infections, and hypoxic-ischemic events. Each case requires thorough evaluation to determine the underlying etiology.