A36.83

What This Code Means

This is a serious nerve condition caused by diphtheria infection, where the toxin damages multiple nerves throughout the body, leading to weakness and paralysis. It typically affects nerves that control muscles, particularly those involved in breathing and swallowing.

Coding Tips

• •Ensure the underlying diphtheria infection is documented and coded separately (typically A36.0-A36.82) before assigning this complication code
• •This code represents a specific neurological complication of diphtheria; verify clinical documentation clearly states polyneuritis or multiple nerve involvement before coding