Multiple sclerosis (G35)
The ICD-10 code G35 is specifically used to identify and classify multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic neurological condition affecting the brain and spinal cord. This code covers all forms and related complications of MS.
Multiple sclerosis is often referred to by various names such as "pediatric multiple sclerosis," "optic neuritis due to demyelinating disease," or "chronic central neuropathic pain due to multiple sclerosis," all of which fall under the G35 code. It also includes different MS types like "primary progressive multiple sclerosis," "relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis," and "secondary progressive multiple sclerosis." The code helps healthcare professionals and coders document symptoms and complications like "myelitis," "autonomic disorder due to multiple sclerosis," and "cognitive impairment due to multiple sclerosis." Using ICD-10 code G35 ensures accurate recording and tracking of MS and its many manifestations, from optic neuritis and brainstem involvement to progressive neurological impairment. This code is essential for managing MS diagnosis, treatment planning, and reporting in clinical and administrative settings.
Instructional Notations
Inclusion Terms
These terms are the conditions for which that code is to be used. The terms may be synonyms of the code title, or, in the case of "other specified" codes, the terms are a list of the various conditions assigned to that code. The inclusion terms are not necessarily exhaustive. Additional terms found only in the Alphabetic Index may also be assigned to a code.
- Disseminated multiple sclerosis
- Generalized multiple sclerosis
- Multiple sclerosis NOS
- Multiple sclerosis of brain stem
- Multiple sclerosis of cord
Clinical Terms
The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.
Multiple Sclerosis
An autoimmune disorder mainly affecting young adults and characterized by destruction of myelin in the central nervous system. Pathologic findings include multiple sharply demarcated areas of demyelination throughout the white matter of the central nervous system. Clinical manifestations include visual loss, extra-ocular movement disorders, paresthesias, loss of sensation, weakness, dysarthria, spasticity, ataxia, and bladder dysfunction. The usual pattern is one of recurrent attacks followed by partial recovery (see MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, RELAPSING-REMITTING), but acute fulminating and chronic progressive forms (see MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, CHRONIC PROGRESSIVE) also occur. (Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, p903)
Multiple Sclerosis, Chronic Progressive
A form of multiple sclerosis characterized by a progressive deterioration in neurologic function which is in contrast to the more typical relapsing remitting form. If the clinical course is free of distinct remissions, it is referred to as primary progressive multiple sclerosis. When the progressive decline is punctuated by acute exacerbations, it is referred to as progressive relapsing multiple sclerosis. The term secondary progressive multiple sclerosis is used when relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis evolves into the chronic progressive form. (From Ann Neurol 1994;36 Suppl:S73-S79; Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, pp903-914)
Multiple Sclerosis, Relapsing-Remitting
The most common clinical variant of MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS, characterized by recurrent acute exacerbations of neurologic dysfunction followed by partial or complete recovery. Common clinical manifestations include loss of visual (see OPTIC NEURITIS), motor, sensory, or bladder function. Acute episodes of demyelination may occur at any site in the central nervous system, and commonly involve the optic nerves, spinal cord, brain stem, and cerebellum. (Adams et al., Principles of Neurology, 6th ed, pp903-914)
