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ICD-10 Coding for Notalgia Paresthetica(G54.8, R20.2)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Notalgia Paresthetica. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Neuropathic PruritusSensory Neuropathy of the Back

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Notalgia Paresthetica

G54-G55Primary Range

Nerve root and plexus disorders

This range includes conditions related to nerve root and plexus disorders, with G54.8 being the specific code for notalgia paresthetica.

Symptoms and signs involving the skin and subcutaneous tissue

This range includes symptom codes like R20.2 for paresthesia of the skin, which is less specific and should not be used as a primary code for notalgia paresthetica.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G54.8Other nerve root and plexus disordersUse when documentation specifies neuropathic origin with nerve involvement.
  • Neuropathic symptoms such as burning or tingling
  • Spinal imaging showing nerve root involvement
  • Response to neuropathic pain treatments
R20.2Paresthesia of skinUse when documentation lacks specificity for neuropathic origin.
  • Generalized skin tingling without specific nerve involvement

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for notalgia paresthetica

Essential facts and insights about Notalgia Paresthetica

The ICD-10 code for notalgia paresthetica is G54.8, used for other nerve root and plexus disorders.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for notalgia paresthetica

Other nerve root and plexus disorders
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of neuropathic symptoms and imaging findings

documentation Criteria

  • Explicit mention of nerve root involvement

Applicable To

  • Notalgia paresthetica

Excludes

  • Meralgia paresthetica (G57.10)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Neuropathic symptoms such as burning or tingling
  • Spinal imaging showing nerve root involvement
  • Response to neuropathic pain treatments

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if documentation lacks specificity
  • Incorrect use if laterality is assumed

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies nerve involvement to avoid defaulting to symptom codes.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Paresthesia of skin

R20.2
Use as a secondary code if neuropathic origin is not confirmed.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Paresthesia of skin

R20.2
Use only when neuropathic origin is unconfirmed.

Other nerve root and plexus disorders

G54.8
Use when specific nerve involvement is documented.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Notalgia Paresthetica to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G54.8.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis or under-treatment of neuropathic conditions., Regulatory: Potential audit failures., Financial: Reduced reimbursement rates.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on documentation requirements., Use templates to guide documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Lower reimbursement due to symptom code usage., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate representation of clinical condition.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies nerve involvement to use G54.8.

Impact

Risk of audits due to vague documentation leading to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of neuropathic symptoms and imaging findings.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Notalgia Paresthetica, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Notalgia Paresthetica

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Notalgia Paresthetica. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Chronic back itch with neuropathic symptoms

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Description of neuropathic symptoms
  • Imaging findings
  • Response to treatment

Example Documentation

Patient reports chronic unilateral back itch with burning sensation, MRI shows T4 nerve root compression.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient complains of back itch.
Good Documentation Example
Patient reports unilateral neuropathic pruritus medial to scapula with associated hyperpigmentation from chronic rubbing, suspected T4 nerve root impingement.
Explanation
The good example specifies the neuropathic nature and potential nerve involvement, supporting the use of G54.8.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Notalgia Paresthetica? Ask your questions below.

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