Infantile idiopathic scoliosis, thoracolumbar region

This code signifies an abnormal, lateral curvature of the spine, specifically in the thoracolumbar region, that develops before the age of three years. The "idiopathic" classification indicates that the cause of the scoliosis is unknown. It is a structural deformity, meaning the vertebral bodies themselves are rotated.

Apply this code for patients under three years old diagnosed with a primary, unexplained scoliosis affecting both the thoracic and lumbar spine segments. Documentation should clearly state the patient's age at diagnosis, the idiopathic nature of the curvature, and its location spanning the thoracolumbar region.

• Differentiate from congenital scoliosis (Q67.5, Q76.3) which is present at birth and often associated with vertebral anomalies.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "idiopathic" and the age of onset to avoid confusion with juvenile (M41.1-) or adolescent (M41.2-) idiopathic scoliosis.
• Do not use for scoliosis secondary to neuromuscular conditions or other underlying diseases; those require coding the primary condition first.