G31.83
Neurocognitive disorder with Lewy bodies
Clinical Classification Guidelines
Use Additional Code
- code, if applicable, to identify mild neurocognitive disorders due to known physiological condition (F06.7-)
Inclusion Terms
- Lewy body dementia
- Lewy body disease
Medical Intelligence & Overview
Neurocognitive disorder with Lewy bodies, also known as Lewy body dementia, is a progressive brain disorder characterized by abnormal protein deposits called Lewy bodies. These deposits develop in the nerve cells of the brain, leading to a decline in cognitive functions, similar to dementia. This condition often affects thinking, movement, behavior, and mood, and is considered one of the most common types of progressive dementia after Alzheimer's disease.
Causes & Symptoms
Clinical Causes: Accumulation of Lewy bodies—abnormal protein deposits—in brain cells. Genetic factors that may predispose individuals to developing Lewy body pathology. Age-related neuronal changes; most cases are diagnosed in older adults. Potential environmental influences, although specific triggers are not well understood.
Key Symptoms: Cognitive fluctuations, including variations in alertness and attention. Visual hallucinations—seeing things that are not there. Parkinsonian motor symptoms such as tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement. REM sleep behavior disorder—physically acting out dreams during sleep. Libido changes and autonomic dysfunction, which may cause blood pressure fluctuations, lightheadedness, or constipation. Depression, anxiety, or other mood changes. Difficulty with spatial awareness and visual perception.
Diagnostic & Treatment
Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis primarily involves clinical assessment, observing the characteristic symptoms, and ruling out other causes of dementia. Healthcare providers may use a combination of patient history, physical and neurological examinations, cognitive tests, and imaging studies such as MRI or PET scans to support the diagnosis. No single test can definitively diagnose Lewy body dementia, making the clinical picture essential. In some cases, doctors may perform additional tests to differentiate it from other types of dementia like Alzheimer's or Parkinson’s disease.
Treatment Protocols: Medications such as cholinesterase inhibitors to improve cognitive function and neuropsychiatric symptoms. Parkinsonian medications like levodopa, for movement difficulties—though they may sometimes cause side effects such as worsening hallucinations. Adjustments in sleep hygiene and safety measures for sleep disturbances. Behavioral therapies and support for mental health issues like depression or anxiety. Physical therapy and occupational therapy to assist with mobility and daily activities. Careful medication management to balance benefits with potential side effects, especially considering the sensitivity of Lewy body patients to certain drugs.
Clinical Advice & FAQs
Billing Guidance
Is G31.83 a billable ICD-10 code?
Yes, G31.83 is a specific, billable code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis for reimbursement purposes.
Documentation
How do I report G31.83?
Clinical documentation must specify the nature of Neurocognitive disorder with Lewy bodies and any associated comorbidities for accurate reporting.
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