Episodic cluster headache, not intractable

This code signifies a type of primary headache disorder characterized by severe, unilateral pain, typically around the eye or temple, occurring in distinct periods or "clusters." These episodes are often accompanied by autonomic symptoms such as lacrimation, rhinorrhea, ptosis, and miosis on the affected side. The "not intractable" designation indicates that the condition is responsive to treatment or has not reached a persistent, unremitting state.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of episodic cluster headache without mention of intractability or status. This is appropriate for patients experiencing recurrent cluster periods separated by pain-free remission periods. Supporting documentation should detail the characteristic pain, associated autonomic features, and the episodic nature of the attacks.

• Differentiate from chronic cluster headache (G44.00x, G44.02x), which involves frequent attacks with short or no remission periods.
• Ensure documentation specifies "episodic" and "not intractable" to accurately assign this code.
• Do not use if the patient's cluster headaches are documented as intractable (G44.001, G44.011, G44.021).