2025 ICD-10-CM code R25.8
Other abnormal involuntary movements.
Medical necessity for using R25.8 is established by the presence of abnormal involuntary movements that are not explained by another, more specific diagnosis. The documentation should support the need for investigation and management of the symptoms.
Diagnosis and management of conditions causing abnormal involuntary movements falls under the purview of neurologists, movement disorder specialists, and sometimes general practitioners, depending on the underlying cause.
- Symptoms, signs and abnormal clinical and laboratory findings, not elsewhere classified (R00-R99)
- Symptoms and signs involving the nervous and musculoskeletal systems
In simple words: This code represents unusual, uncontrolled body movements that are not otherwise classified.
Abnormal involuntary movements not categorized elsewhere.
Example 1: A patient presents with involuntary muscle twitching in their leg, which is determined to be benign fasciculation after neurological examination and electromyography. R25.8 would be appropriate in this case if it doesn't fit more specific fasciculation codes within R25.3., A patient experiences unusual, rhythmic head movements not fitting the criteria for any specific movement disorder like a tic or tremor. If no other specific code within R25 applies, R25.8 might be used., A patient on antipsychotic medication develops involuntary movements, but the symptoms do not perfectly align with known drug-induced movement disorders. R25.8 would be applicable if it's distinct from other classified abnormal involuntary movements.
Thorough clinical documentation detailing the nature, location, frequency, and duration of the involuntary movements is essential. Relevant neurological examination findings, diagnostic test results (e.g., electromyography, imaging studies), and details of any potential causative factors (e.g., medication use, injury) should be included.
** Remember, R25.8 is a less specific code. Use it only when more definitive diagnoses are excluded, or for transient or ill-defined involuntary movements requiring further investigation.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Neurology, General Practice, Internal Medicine, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Office, Skilled Nursing Facility, Nursing Facility