Herpes simplex myelitis

This code describes inflammation of the spinal cord caused by the herpes simplex virus. It represents a rare but serious neurological complication of herpes simplex infection, leading to various motor, sensory, and autonomic deficits.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states herpes simplex as the causative agent of myelitis. This typically occurs in immunocompromised individuals or as a primary infection. Supporting documentation would include viral culture, PCR, or serological evidence of HSV, along with clinical signs of spinal cord inflammation.

• Ensure the documentation clearly links herpes simplex as the etiology of the myelitis.
• Do not confuse with myelitis due to other viral agents; specific codes exist for those.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter, followed by any associated neurological deficits.