Transient global amnesia

This code represents a sudden, temporary episode of anterograde and retrograde amnesia, where the individual cannot form new memories and has difficulty recalling recent events. It is a benign condition characterized by a complete recovery of memory function, typically within 24 hours, with no residual neurological deficits.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a transient episode of memory loss consistent with transient global amnesia. This diagnosis is often made clinically after excluding other causes of acute amnesia, such as stroke or epilepsy. Supporting documentation should describe the sudden onset, duration, and complete resolution of the amnesic episode.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "transient global amnesia" and not just general amnesia.
• Do not code with R41.3 (Amnesia NOS) as per the Excludes1 note.
• Confirm complete resolution of symptoms within 24 hours; prolonged amnesia may indicate a different diagnosis.