Neurosurgery Coding Alert

Reader Questions:

Be Prepared to Use Menstrual Migraine Dx Codes

Question: Are there ICD-10 codes specific to migraine during menstruation? If so, how do I select the proper diagnosis for these patients?

AAPC Forum Subscriber

Answer: Yes, there are diagnosis codes for menstrual migraine. In order to report them properly, you’ll need the following information from the encounter notes:

Is the migraine intractable or not intractable? Intractable migraines refer to severe and persistent migraines that do not respond well to treatment or medication. These migraines can cause significant pain and discomfort, often lasting for extended periods of time and interfering with daily activities. On the other hand, not intractable migraines are migraines that can be effectively managed and controlled with appropriate treatment and medication. These migraines may still cause discomfort and symptoms, but they are more responsive to interventions and do not significantly impair daily functioning.Top of Form

Is the migraine accompanied by status migrainosus? Status migrainosus refers to a severe and prolonged migraine attack that lasts for more than 72 hours. It is characterized by intense and debilitating head pain, often accompanied by symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light and sound, and difficulty performing daily activities. Status migrainosus is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

Once you have those questions answered, you can choose from the following diagnosis codes:

  • G43.821 (Menstrual migraine, not intractable, with status migrainosus)
  • G43.829 (Menstrual migraine, not intractable, without status migrainosus)
  • G43.831 (Menstrual migraine, intractable, with status migrainosus)
  • G43.839 (Menstrual migraine, intractable, without status migrainosus).