Neurology & Pain Management Coding Alert

Question: My physician performed a physical exam on a patient that led to a conclusion of diminished deep tendon reflex. My physician ordered an EMG, but the EMG results were normal. Where can I find a diagnosis code for diminished deep tendon reflexes? Alabama Subscriber Answer: Your best bet may be 796.1 (Abnormal reflex), a nonspecific abnormal finding, based on ICD-9 chapter 16 guidelines. These state that the conditions and signs or symptoms included in categories 780-796 consist of cases for which no more specific diagnosis can be made even after all facts bearing on the case have been investigated; signs or symptoms existing at the time of initial encounter that proved to be transient and whose causes could not be determined; or cases in which a more precise diagnosis was not available for any other reason. Alternative: Investigate using 781.99 (Other symptoms involving nervous and musculoskeletal systems). Check the [...]