2025 ICD-10-CM code G31.09
(Valid) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Diseases of the nervous system - Other degenerative diseases of the nervous system 6 Feed
Other frontotemporal neurocognitive disorder.Characterized by changes in behavior, personality, and language skills due to the degeneration of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.
The medical necessity for the diagnosis and management of other frontotemporal dementia stems from the progressive and debilitating nature of the disease, impacting the patient's cognitive function, behavior, and ability to perform daily activities.Appropriate documentation is essential to support the medical necessity of diagnostic testing, medications, and therapeutic interventions like speech therapy.
Symptoms of other frontotemporal dementia vary depending on the type and severity of the condition, but include behavioral and personality changes (lack of empathy, judgment, inhibition, energy and motivation; increased inappropriate social behavior and sex drive; overeating; neglecting personal hygiene); and language disturbances (increased difficulty in speaking, writing, and understanding written and spoken language). Providers diagnose the condition based on medical history, signs and symptoms and physical and neurological examination. There is no specific test to diagnose the condition. Diagnosis is based on clinical findings and by ruling out other conditions. The provider may order blood and urine tests and MRI or PET scan of the brain to rule out other diseases. There is no effective treatment to cure or slow progression of the disease. Medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and SSRIs may be used for agitated or aggressive behavior. Speech therapy can benefit the patient with language difficulties.
In simple words: This code describes a type of dementia that affects the front and side parts of the brain.It causes changes in personality, behavior, and how someone communicates.It's different from other, more common types of dementia like Alzheimer's disease.
Other frontotemporal dementia refers to changes in memory, personality, behavior, and communication skills as a result of shrinking of the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, generally beginning in younger patients. The provider documents the frontotemporal dementia not represented by another code.
Example 1: A 55-year-old patient presents with progressive changes in behavior, including disinhibition and apathy.After ruling out other causes, the physician diagnoses other frontotemporal dementia., A 60-year-old individual experiences increasing difficulty with language, including word-finding difficulties and impaired comprehension.Neurological examination and imaging suggest frontotemporal dementia, and G31.09 is used for coding., A patient with a family history of frontotemporal dementia begins to exhibit symptoms, including compulsive behaviors and personality changes.Genetic testing and clinical evaluation confirm the diagnosis, and G31.09 is applied.
Documentation should include detailed clinical findings related to behavioral and personality changes, language disturbances, and cognitive decline.It's crucial to document the diagnostic process, including the results of any neurological examinations, imaging studies (MRI, PET), and laboratory tests to rule out other conditions.Any treatments provided, such as medication or therapy, should also be documented.Specify the type of frontotemporal dementia if known.
** While there's no specific cure, management focuses on symptom control and supportive care.Early diagnosis is important for appropriate care planning and patient support. Consider genetic counseling for individuals with a family history of frontotemporal dementia.
- Specialties:Neurology, Psychiatry, Geriatrics
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Office, Skilled Nursing Facility, Nursing Facility,Independent Clinic