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2025 ICD-10-CM code A17.9

Tuberculosis of the nervous system, unspecified.

Use additional code to identify resistance to antimicrobial drugs (Z16.-). Do not use this code if the specific site of nervous system involvement is documented (e.g., tuberculous meningitis, tuberculous encephalitis).

Medical necessity is established by the presence of clinical findings and laboratory or imaging confirmation of tuberculosis affecting the nervous system.

The diagnosis of tuberculosis of the nervous system is made based on a combination of factors:*Clinical Presentation:* Symptoms such as fever, headache, stiff neck, focal neurological deficits (weakness or numbness), behavioral changes, and altered mental status. Children may experience seizures and abdominal symptoms like nausea and vomiting.*Laboratory Tests:* A positive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) test for Mycobacterium tuberculosis.*Other Tests:* Tuberculin skin test (TST) and imaging studies like MRI or CT scans of the brain and spine. A previous history of tuberculosis or active disease may also be relevant.

In simple words: TB can sometimes affect the nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. This is a serious but uncommon problem.This code is used when the doctor doesn't specify exactly which part of the nervous system is affected.

Tuberculosis of the nervous system is a rare but serious manifestation of tuberculosis (TB) caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It affects the brain, spinal cord, and meninges (membranes covering the brain and spinal cord). This condition can occur even with appropriate antitubercular treatment. The specific manifestation of the nervous system affected by TB is not documented.

Example 1: A patient presents with fever, headache, stiff neck, and altered mental status.Testing reveals Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the cerebrospinal fluid.The physician does not specify the exact location within the nervous system., A child with a history of TB exposure experiences seizures and vomiting. Imaging studies suggest TB involvement of the nervous system, but the specific area is not clearly defined., An individual undergoing treatment for pulmonary tuberculosis develops new neurological symptoms.Further investigation indicates tuberculosis has spread to the nervous system, but the specific site is not documented.

Documentation should include signs and symptoms, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, results of imaging studies (MRI or CT), tuberculin skin test results, and any relevant history of TB exposure or prior treatment.

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