Other acute disseminated demyelination (G36)
ICD-10 code section G36 covers various types of acute disseminated demyelination, conditions characterized by the rapid loss of the protective covering (myelin) around nerve fibers in the central nervous system. These codes specifically identify distinct forms of sudden demyelinating diseases that affect the brain and spinal cord.
This section includes codes for Neuromyelitis optica (G36.0), also known as Devic disease or demyelination of the spinal cord, which primarily affects the optic nerves and spinal cord. Another code, G36.1, represents acute and subacute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis (Hurst disease), which features a severe, often rapidly progressing inflammation and demyelination of brain tissue, sometimes called acute hemorrhagic leukoencephalitis or acute disseminated encephalomyelitis. Additionally, G36.8 covers other specified types of acute demyelination that don’t fit these categories, while G36.9 is used when the specific type of acute disseminated demyelination is not clearly specified. These ICD-10 codes help healthcare providers accurately classify and document these serious nervous system disorders for diagnosis, treatment, and billing purposes.
Instructional Notations
Type 1 Excludes
A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.
- postinfectious encephalitis and encephalomyelitis NOS G04.01
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.
Neuromyelitis Optica
A syndrome characterized by acute OPTIC NEURITIS; MYELITIS, TRANSVERSE; demyelinating and/or necrotizing lesions in the OPTIC NERVES and SPINAL CORD; and presence of specific autoantibodies to AQUAPORIN 4.
