Postradiation scoliosis

This code identifies a spinal curvature, specifically scoliosis, that develops as a direct consequence of therapeutic radiation exposure. It signifies a late effect of radiation treatment, where the radiation has damaged vertebral growth plates or surrounding soft tissues, leading to abnormal spinal development or deformation.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links the patient's scoliosis to a history of radiation therapy, typically for a malignancy in childhood or adolescence. Supporting documentation should include a history of radiation treatment to the spine or trunk and a subsequent diagnosis of scoliosis.

• Always sequence this code after the code for the primary malignancy (if still active) or a personal history of malignancy (Z85.-).
• Do not confuse with idiopathic scoliosis (M41.-) or scoliosis due to other underlying conditions.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly states "postradiation" or "radiation-induced" scoliosis.