G54.5
Neuralgic amyotrophy
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Inclusion Terms
- Parsonage-Aldren-Turner syndrome
- Shoulder-girdle neuritis
Excludes Type 1
- neuralgic amyotrophy in diabetes mellitus (E08-E13 with .44)
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Neuralgic amyotrophy, also known as Parsonage-Aldren-Turner syndrome or shoulder-girdle neuritis, is a neurological disorder characterized by sudden, severe pain followed by muscle weakness, atrophy, and sensory changes in the shoulder and upper limb. This condition primarily affects the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that send signals from the spinal cord to the shoulder, arm, and hand. Although the exact cause remains unclear, neuralgic amyotrophy can significantly impact daily activities due to its abrupt onset and potential for long-term nerve damage.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Viral infections (such as hepatitis, immunizations, or influenza) Genetic predisposition or family history Autoimmune responses where the immune system mistakenly attacks nerve tissues Trauma or injury to the shoulder or neck Certain medications or medical procedures Potential environmental or other unknown factors
Key Symptoms: Sudden, intense shoulder pain often described as burning, stabbing, or aching Pain typically lasts from several days to a few weeks Weakness in shoulder muscles, sometimes spreading to the arm and hand Muscle atrophy or wasting in affected regions over weeks or months Sensory disturbances such as numbness, tingling, or heightened sensitivity Limited range of motion in the shoulder and arm Possible presence of reflex changes or abnormal nerve sensations
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Physical examination to assess muscle strength, reflexes, and sensory function Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies to evaluate nerve function Imaging studies like MRI to exclude other causes such as nerve compression or lesions Blood tests to identify underlying infections or autoimmune markers Detailed medical history to document symptom progression and potential triggers
Treatment Protocols: Pain management with medications such asNSAIDs, corticosteroids, or other analgesics Physical therapy to maintain joint mobility, prevent contractures, and strengthen affected muscles Occupational therapy for assistance with daily activities Monitoring nerve function over time and adjusting treatment accordingly Addressing any underlying causes or contributing factors In some cases, corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medications may be prescribed to reduce nerve inflammation
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is G54.5 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, G54.5 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report G54.5?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Neuralgic amyotrophy and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
Cite this Clinical Reference