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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH81.39

H81.39

Billable

Other peripheral vertigo

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H81.39 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other peripheral vertigo.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Other peripheral vertigo encompasses a variety of conditions that lead to a sensation of spinning or dizziness due to issues affecting the inner ear or vestibular system. Unlike central vertigo, which originates from the brain, peripheral vertigo is primarily linked to disorders of the vestibular apparatus, including the semicircular canals and otolith organs. Common causes include benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), vestibular neuritis, and labyrinthitis, as well as less common conditions such as Meniere's disease and vestibular schwannoma. Patients may present with symptoms such as sudden onset of vertigo, imbalance, nausea, and hearing changes. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical history, physical examination, and may include vestibular function tests, audiometry, and imaging studies. Management strategies vary based on the underlying cause and may include vestibular rehabilitation therapy, medications for symptom relief, or surgical interventions in severe cases. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate reimbursement and to reflect the complexity of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying causes leading to peripheral vertigo
  • Differentiation from central vertigo codes
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of symptoms and diagnostic tests
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other ear disorders

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the specific type of vertigo
  • Failure to document the underlying cause of vertigo
  • Misuse of codes for central versus peripheral vertigo
  • Inconsistent coding across different encounters

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of symptoms, results of vestibular testing, and any imaging studies performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute vertigo, chronic dizziness, or hearing loss associated with vertigo.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation specifies the type of vertigo and any associated ear conditions.

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive neurological examination findings, differential diagnoses considered, and results of any neuroimaging.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with vertigo who may have central causes needing further evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Document any neurological deficits or additional symptoms that may indicate a central cause.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H81.39 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, H81
  • 39 should be used when the specific type of peripheral vertigo is not classified elsewhere
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any relevant tests or treatments are recorded

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H81.39 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

92540CPT Code

Caloric vestibular testing

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess vestibular function in patients with vertigo.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for testing and results.

Specialty Considerations

Otolaryngologists often perform this test.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of peripheral vertigo, enabling better tracking of conditions and outcomes. H81.39 provides a broader classification for various causes of peripheral vertigo, improving the granularity of data for research and treatment efficacy.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of peripheral vertigo, enabling better tracking of conditions and outcomes. H81.39 provides a broader classification for various causes of peripheral vertigo, improving the granularity of data for research and treatment efficacy.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 is the difference between peripheral and central vertigo?

Peripheral vertigo originates from the inner ear or vestibular system, while central vertigo is caused by issues in the brain. Symptoms and diagnostic approaches differ, making accurate coding essential.