2025 ICD-10-CM code Q03
Congenital hydrocephalus. This condition refers to the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain that is present at birth.
The medical necessity for treatment of congenital hydrocephalus is established by demonstrating the presence of excessive CSF accumulation, increased intracranial pressure, and the potential for neurological complications if left untreated.The chosen treatment approach should be justified based on the infant's specific condition and the severity of the hydrocephalus.
Diagnosis and management of congenital hydrocephalus typically falls under the purview of pediatric neurologists, neurosurgeons, and neonatologists. They are responsible for evaluating the infant's condition, determining the underlying cause, and recommending appropriate treatment strategies.
In simple words: Congenital hydrocephalus is a condition where a baby is born with too much fluid in their brain. This fluid buildup can put pressure on the brain and cause problems.
Congenital hydrocephalus is a condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles (fluid-filled spaces) of the brain. This occurs due to an imbalance between CSF production and absorption.It is present at birth, distinguishing it from acquired hydrocephalus that develops later in life.This condition can lead to increased intracranial pressure, potentially causing enlargement of the head in infants and various neurological symptoms.It is important to differentiate congenital hydrocephalus from other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as Arnold-Chiari malformation type II, acquired hydrocephalus, hydrocephalus due to congenital toxoplasmosis, and hydrocephalus associated with spina bifida.
Example 1: A newborn infant presents with an abnormally large head circumference and bulging fontanelles. Imaging studies reveal an excessive accumulation of CSF within the ventricles, confirming the diagnosis of congenital hydrocephalus. , A fetus is diagnosed with hydrocephalus during a prenatal ultrasound. Upon birth, the infant is monitored closely for signs of increased intracranial pressure., An infant born with spina bifida also develops hydrocephalus due to the associated neural tube defect. The hydrocephalus is managed in conjunction with the spina bifida treatment.
Documentation for congenital hydrocephalus should include details of the infant's head circumference measurements, fontanelle assessment, imaging findings (such as ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans), and any neurological symptoms observed. Prenatal ultrasound reports, if available, can also provide valuable information.
** Excludes1: Arnold-Chiari syndrome, type II (Q07.0-) acquired hydrocephalus (G91.-) hydrocephalus due to congenital toxoplasmosis (P37.1) hydrocephalus with spina bifida (Q05.0-Q05.4)Excludes2: inborn errors of metabolism (E70-E88)
- Specialties:Pediatric neurosurgery, pediatric neurology, neonatology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital