ICD-10 Coding for Muscular Dystrophy(G71.01, G71.02)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Muscular Dystrophy. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Muscular Dystrophy
G71.0-G71.09Primary Range
Muscular Dystrophy
This range includes specific types of muscular dystrophy such as Duchenne, Becker, and facioscapulohumeral.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| G71.01 | Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophy | Use when genetic testing confirms Duchenne or Becker muscular dystrophy. |
|
| G71.02 | Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy | Use when clinical presentation matches facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy. |
|
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 Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Essential facts and insights about Muscular Dystrophy
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for muscle dystrophy
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of dystrophin gene mutation confirmed by genetic testing.
Applicable To
- Duchenne muscular dystrophy
- Becker muscular dystrophy
Excludes
- Other specified myopathies (G72.89)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Elevated CK levels (>10x normal)
- Genetic testing confirming dystrophin gene mutation
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly using unspecified codes when specific type is known.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the type of muscular dystrophy.
G71.02 - Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
Use when clinical presentation matches facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy.
Applicable To
- Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy
Excludes
- Other specified myopathies (G72.89)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Facial weakness
- Scapular winging
- Autosomal dominant inheritance
Coding Notes
Document specific genetic findings if available.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Cardiomyopathy in diseases classified elsewhere
I43.1Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Muscular Dystrophy to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G71.01.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit., Financial: May result in denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure genetic testing is performed and results are documented., Train staff on documentation requirements.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure genetic testing results are reviewed and documented to specify the type of muscular dystrophy.
Impact
High risk of audit when unspecified codes are used without genetic confirmation.
Mitigation Strategy
Require genetic testing for all suspected cases of muscular dystrophy.
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 Muscular Dystrophy, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Muscular Dystrophy
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Muscular Dystrophy. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Specialty: NeurologyRequired Elements
- Genetic testing results
- CK levels
- Muscle biopsy findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Muscular Dystrophy? Ask your questions below.