Benign intracranial hypertension

This code represents a neurological disorder characterized by elevated cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure within the skull without an identifiable secondary cause, such as a tumor or infection. It typically presents with symptoms mimicking a brain tumor, including headache, visual disturbances, and papilledema. The condition is also known as pseudotumor cerebri.

Assign this code when documentation confirms idiopathic intracranial hypertension, often diagnosed after excluding other causes of increased intracranial pressure. It is appropriate for patients presenting with classic symptoms like pulsatile tinnitus, transient visual obscurations, and papilledema, especially when lumbar puncture reveals elevated opening pressure.

• Do not code this with hypertensive encephalopathy (I67.4) or obstructive hydrocephalus (G91.1) due to Excludes1 notes.
• Ensure documentation clearly states "idiopathic" or "benign" to differentiate from secondary intracranial hypertension.
• Consider additional codes for associated symptoms such as headache (R51) or visual disturbances (H53.-) if separately documented and treated.