2025 ICD-10-CM code G99.2
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Diseases of the nervous system - Other disorders of the nervous system 6 Feed
Myelopathy in diseases classified elsewhere. Code first the underlying disease.
Medical necessity for the use of G99.2 is established by the presence of myelopathy due to a documented underlying disease. The underlying disease must be the primary focus of treatment.
Signs and symptoms of myelopathy vary depending on the underlying disease and the level of the spinal cord affected. General symptoms can include tingling, numbness, and weakness of the legs, arms, or other body areas, and changes in cognitive function, personality, and behavior. Providers diagnose the condition based on medical history, signs and symptoms, and neurological evaluation. Diagnostic studies depend on the level of spinal cord involvement and the underlying disease or disorder but may include CBC, blood studies for vitamin B levels, thyroid function test, MRI or CT scan of the spinal cord, and electrodiagnostic studies such as EEG, EMG, or NCV.
In simple words: Myelopathy is a problem with the spinal cord. It happens because of another health issue.This code is used with another code that describes the main health problem causing the myelopathy.
Myelopathy in diseases classified elsewhere refers to a disease or disorder of the spinal cord that occurs secondary to an underlying disease or pathological condition. This code should be used in conjunction with other code(s) identifying the primary disease(s) or condition(s).
Example 1: A patient with multiple sclerosis experiences progressive weakness and numbness in their legs due to myelopathy., A patient with a spinal tumor develops myelopathy, resulting in pain, sensory loss, and difficulty walking., A patient with severe vitamin B12 deficiency presents with myelopathy, exhibiting symptoms like loss of balance and coordination.
Documentation should include the underlying cause of the myelopathy, neurological exam findings, and any diagnostic tests performed (e.g., MRI, CT scan, blood tests).The primary disease or condition should be documented and coded first.
** It's crucial to accurately document the underlying condition causing the myelopathy.For more complex scenarios or specific payer requirements, consider consulting iFrameAI for up-to-date guidance.
- Specialties:Neurology, Neurosurgery, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine
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