How Alzheimer’s Disease Is Categorized in ICD-10-CM?

 Alzheimer’s disease is the leading cause of dementia, impacting millions of patients worldwide. For medical coders, accurate documentation is essential. In the ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification), Alzheimer’s disease falls under the G30 category, with subcategories based on onset and progression.

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ICD-10-CM Codes for Alzheimer’s Disease

In ICD-10-CM, Alzheimer’s disease is categorized as follows:

• G30.0 – Alzheimer’s disease with early onset
  Typically diagnosed before age 65.

• G30.1 – Alzheimer’s disease with late onset
  Most common type, usually diagnosed after age 65.

• G30.8 – Other Alzheimer’s disease
  Used for less common variations.

• G30.9 – Alzheimer’s disease, unspecified
  When documentation does not specify onset.

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Dementia Coding With Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease is almost always associated with dementia. ICD-10-CM requires an additional code from the F02.8- series:

• F02.80 – Dementia in other diseases classified elsewhere, without behavioral disturbance

• F02.81 – Dementia in other diseases classified elsewhere, with behavioral disturbance

Example:

• Alzheimer’s disease with late onset and behavioral disturbance → G30.1 + F02.81

• Alzheimer’s disease with early onset, no behavioral disturbance → G30.0 + F02.80

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Why Accurate ICD-10-CM Coding Matters

Accurate coding of Alzheimer’s disease is essential because it:

• Ensures precise medical records

• Guides treatment and care planning

• Impacts insurance reimbursement

• Provides data for research and public health

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FAQs on Alzheimer’s Disease ICD-10-CM Coding

1. What is the ICD-10-CM code for Alzheimer’s disease?
The general ICD-10-CM code is G30, with subcategories for early onset (G30.0), late onset (G30.1), other (G30.8), and unspecified (G30.9).

2. Do I need to code dementia with Alzheimer’s disease?
Yes. ICD-10-CM guidelines require an additional F02.8- code for dementia, with or without behavioral disturbance.

3. What is the difference between early onset and late onset Alzheimer’s coding?

• Early onset (G30.0) is typically diagnosed before age 65.

• Late onset (G30.1) is diagnosed after age 65 and is the most common form.

4. Can I just use G30.9 for all cases of Alzheimer’s disease?
No. G30.9 (unspecified) should only be used when the documentation does not provide details on onset or type.