Metabolic encephalopathy

This code represents a reversible or irreversible brain dysfunction caused by systemic metabolic derangements rather than primary structural brain disease. It manifests as altered mental status, ranging from mild confusion to coma, due to the brain's inability to function normally in the presence of metabolic imbalances.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates encephalopathy resulting from metabolic disturbances such as hepatic failure, renal failure, electrolyte imbalances, hypoglycemia, or hypoxia. This diagnosis requires physician documentation specifying the metabolic etiology of the encephalopathy.

• Always code the underlying metabolic condition first, as it is the etiology of the encephalopathy.
• Distinguish from toxic encephalopathy (G92), which is caused by exogenous substances, and other specified encephalopathies.
• Ensure documentation specifies "metabolic" to differentiate from other forms of encephalopathy.