2025 ICD-10-CM code G37.3
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Diseases of the nervous system - Other demyelinating diseases of central nervous system 6 Feed
Acute transverse myelitis in demyelinating disease of the central nervous system.This is a sudden onset of neurological symptoms due to inflammation of the spinal cord, often caused by damage to the protective covering (myelin sheath) of nerve cells.
Medical necessity for services related to G37.3 is established by the presence of signs and symptoms consistent with acute transverse myelitis.Documentation should support the need for diagnostic testing to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.The medical record should also justify the chosen treatment plan and the need for any ongoing care, such as physical or occupational therapy.
Clinicians diagnosing and managing G37.3 should possess expertise in neurological disorders. This may include neurologists, physiatrists, and primary care physicians with experience in managing complex neurological conditions.Accurate diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment are critical for optimizing patient outcomes.The clinical responsibility encompasses a thorough evaluation, ordering and interpreting appropriate diagnostic tests, and developing a comprehensive treatment plan, often in consultation with other specialists.
In simple words: Acute transverse myelitis is a sudden problem where the spinal cord becomes inflamed.This inflammation damages the covering of the nerves, which can lead to problems like weakness, numbness, tingling, and trouble with using the bathroom.This can happen because of infections or problems with the immune system.
Acute transverse myelitis in demyelinating disease of the central nervous system is characterized by the sudden onset of a neurological disorder caused by damage to the myelin sheath of nerve cells, leading to inflammation of both sides of a section of the spinal cord.This condition may occur due to infections and immune system disorders such as multiple sclerosis, vasculitis, or viral meningocephalitis. Symptoms vary depending on the level of spinal cord affected and may include pain, weakness in the legs, arms, and lower back, abnormal sensations (tingling, burning, numbness), sensory loss, and bowel and bladder dysfunction. In severe cases, partial or complete paralysis of the extremities may occur. Diagnosis involves medical history, physical examination, blood tests, lumbar puncture, CT scan, and MRI. Treatment may include antiviral medications, corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulins, plasmapheresis, and pain medications. Physical and occupational therapy may benefit patients with long-lasting neurological symptoms.
Example 1: A 30-year-old female presents with sudden onset of lower back pain, weakness in her legs, and urinary incontinence.An MRI reveals inflammation in her spinal cord consistent with acute transverse myelitis.After ruling out other causes, she is diagnosed with G37.3 and treated with corticosteroids., A 50-year-old male with a history of multiple sclerosis experiences a new episode of neurological symptoms, including arm weakness and numbness.Diagnostic testing confirms inflammation in the spinal cord, and he is diagnosed with acute transverse myelitis (G37.3) as an exacerbation of his MS., A child develops sudden leg weakness and sensory loss following a viral infection.Imaging studies reveal spinal cord inflammation, leading to a diagnosis of G37.3. The child receives supportive care and physical therapy.
Documentation for G37.3 should include a detailed description of the presenting symptoms, onset, neurological examination findings, results of imaging studies (MRI, CT), cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and any other relevant diagnostic testing.It's essential to document the underlying demyelinating disease process if known.Treatment details, including medications and therapies, should also be thoroughly documented.
** Excludes1: acute flaccid myelitis (G04.82), multiple sclerosis (G35), neuromyelitis optica [Devic] (G36.0).
- Specialties:Neurology, Physiatry, Internal Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Office