Type 1 diabetes mellitus with diabetic polyneuropathy

This code signifies type 1 diabetes where nerve damage, specifically polyneuropathy, has developed as a complication. Diabetic polyneuropathy typically involves symmetrical damage to peripheral nerves, often affecting the feet and hands, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness. It is a chronic complication directly attributable to prolonged hyperglycemia in type 1 diabetes.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a patient has type 1 diabetes and has been diagnosed with diabetic polyneuropathy. This diagnosis is typically supported by neurological examination findings, nerve conduction studies, and patient-reported symptoms consistent with peripheral nerve damage. Ensure the physician explicitly links the polyneuropathy to the patient's diabetes.

• Always sequence this code after the primary diagnosis for type 1 diabetes if it is not the primary reason for the encounter.
• Do not use this code if the polyneuropathy is due to a cause other than diabetes (e.g., chemotherapy, vitamin deficiency).
• Verify that the documentation specifies "type 1" diabetes; do not assume if only "diabetes" is mentioned.