Trigeminal neuralgia

This code represents a chronic pain condition affecting the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from the face to the brain. It is characterized by sudden, severe, shock-like facial pain, typically on one side of the face, often triggered by light touch, chewing, or speaking.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of trigeminal neuralgia, often described as tic douloureux. This diagnosis is typically made based on the patient's characteristic symptoms and a neurological examination. Supporting documentation should detail the nature, location, and triggers of the facial pain.

• Differentiate from other facial pain syndromes; ensure the documentation specifically states "trigeminal neuralgia."
• Do not confuse with atypical facial pain or other unspecified facial pain codes without a definitive diagnosis.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, especially for pain management or neurological evaluation.