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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesH81.4

H81.4

Billable

Vertigo of central origin

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

Code Description

ICD-10 H81.4 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of vertigo of central origin.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Vertigo of central origin refers to a type of vertigo that arises from disturbances in the central nervous system, particularly affecting the brainstem or cerebellum. Unlike peripheral vertigo, which is often linked to inner ear disorders, central vertigo can be associated with various neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, or tumors. Patients may experience symptoms such as dizziness, imbalance, and visual disturbances. The clinical presentation can vary widely, often accompanied by other neurological signs such as ataxia, dysarthria, or altered consciousness. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical evaluation, including a detailed history and neurological examination, along with imaging studies like MRI or CT scans to identify underlying central nervous system pathologies. Management may include vestibular rehabilitation, pharmacotherapy for symptomatic relief, and addressing the underlying cause of the vertigo. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment and reimbursement, as central vertigo can have significant implications for patient care and outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between central and peripheral causes of vertigo
  • Need for comprehensive neurological evaluation
  • Potential overlap with other neurological conditions
  • Variability in clinical presentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of neurological findings
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of vertigo
  • Misclassification of peripheral vs. central vertigo
  • Lack of imaging studies in the medical record

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Neurology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed neurological examination findings, imaging results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with dizziness and neurological deficits, such as stroke or multiple sclerosis.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the complexity of the case and any comorbidities.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of ear function, balance tests, and any surgical interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with vertigo who may have concurrent ear disorders or require surgical evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Document any differential diagnoses considered and the rationale for the chosen treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use H81.4 When
  • According to official coding guidelines, H81
  • 4 should be used when vertigo is determined to be of central origin, necessitating documentation of the underlying cause

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use H81.4 When
  • Exclusion criteria include cases where vertigo is clearly linked to peripheral vestibular disorders

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

92540CPT Code

Vestibular function tests

Clinical Scenario

Used to assess vestibular function in patients with suspected central vertigo.

Documentation Requirements

Document the specific tests performed and the rationale for their use.

Specialty Considerations

Neurologists and otolaryngologists should ensure comprehensive reporting of findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vertigo types, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. H81.4 provides a clear distinction for central origin vertigo, which is crucial for appropriate management and reimbursement.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of vertigo types, improving the accuracy of diagnoses and treatment plans. H81.4 provides a clear distinction for central origin vertigo, which is crucial for appropriate management and reimbursement.

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 are the common causes of central vertigo?

Common causes include strokes, multiple sclerosis, tumors, and vestibular migraines. Each of these conditions can lead to disturbances in the central vestibular pathways.