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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH81.1

H81.1

Billable

Benign paroxysmal vertigo

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/12/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 H81.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of benign paroxysmal vertigo.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Benign paroxysmal vertigo (BPV) is a vestibular disorder characterized by brief episodes of vertigo triggered by changes in head position. It is caused by dislodged otoliths (calcium carbonate crystals) that migrate into the semicircular canals of the inner ear, leading to abnormal signals sent to the brain regarding head position and movement. Patients typically experience sudden, intense spinning sensations that can last from a few seconds to a couple of minutes. Symptoms may be exacerbated by specific head movements, such as rolling over in bed or looking up. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by the Dix-Hallpike maneuver, which can reproduce the vertigo and nystagmus associated with BPV. Management often includes vestibular rehabilitation therapy and the Epley maneuver, which aims to reposition the dislodged otoliths. BPV is considered benign as it is not associated with any serious underlying condition, but it can significantly impact quality of life due to the unpredictable nature of vertiginous episodes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating BPV from other vestibular disorders
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and triggers
  • Potential for co-morbid conditions affecting coding
  • Variability in patient presentation and response to treatment

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of vertigo episodes
  • Failure to specify triggers or duration of symptoms
  • Misclassification of BPV as a more severe vestibular disorder
  • Lack of supporting evidence for treatment provided

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of vertiginous episodes, results of vestibular testing, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with recurrent vertigo, particularly after head movements.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation includes specific maneuvers performed and patient response.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological examination findings and differential diagnosis considerations.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with vertigo who may have underlying neurological conditions.

Billing Considerations

Document any neurological signs that may suggest a more serious condition.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H81.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, H81
  • 1 should be used when the diagnosis of benign paroxysmal vertigo is confirmed
  • It is important to document the specific type of vertigo and any associated symptoms

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H81.1 When
  • Exclusion criteria include other vestibular disorders that may present similarly

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

92540CPT Code

Vestibular function tests

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess vestibular function in patients with vertigo.

Documentation Requirements

Document the type of tests performed and results.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists often perform these tests to confirm BPV.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vestibular disorders, including BPV. This specificity aids in better tracking of the condition and its management, improving patient care and outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vestibular disorders, including BPV. This specificity aids in better tracking of the condition and its management, improving patient care and outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vestibular disorders, including BPV. This specificity aids in better tracking of the condition and its management, improving patient care and outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common triggers for benign paroxysmal vertigo?

Common triggers include sudden head movements, such as turning over in bed, looking up, or bending down. These movements can cause dislodged otoliths to stimulate the vestibular system, leading to vertigo.