Cervical radiculopathy, commonly known as a pinched nerve in the neck, is a condition that occurs when a nerve in the cervical spine is compressed or irritated. Accurate diagnosis and coding are crucial in healthcare, and the ICD-10-CM code system plays a vital role in this process. This article delves into the specifics of Diagnosis Code For Cervical Radiculopathy, focusing on ICD-10-CM code M54.12.
What is ICD-10-CM M54.12?
ICD-10-CM code M54.12 is the designated diagnosis code for cervical radiculopathy within the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM). Specifically, M54.12 is a billable and specific code, meaning it is precise enough to be used for reimbursement purposes in healthcare claims within the United States. The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM M54.12 became effective on October 1, 2024, and it’s important to use the most current code for accurate medical billing and record-keeping. It’s also important to note that M54.12 is the American ICD-10-CM version, and international versions might differ.
Within the ICD-10-CM system, M54.12 falls under the broader category of M54.1, which is the code for Radiculopathy, and further specifies the location as the cervical region.
Synonyms for Cervical Radiculopathy
To ensure clarity and aid in diagnosis, it’s helpful to understand the terms that are considered approximate synonyms for cervical radiculopathy. These include:
- Cervical (neck) radiculitis
- Cervical (neck) radiculopathy
- Cervical radiculitis
- Ulnar neuritis (in some contexts, though ulnar neuritis more specifically refers to ulnar nerve issues, cervical radiculopathy can sometimes affect the ulnar nerve distribution)
These terms essentially describe the same condition: nerve root dysfunction in the cervical spine.
ICD-10-CM Code History of M54.12
The code M54.12 is a relatively recent addition to the ICD-10-CM system. It was introduced in 2016 (effective October 1, 2015) as a new code, marking the first year of the non-draft ICD-10-CM. Since its introduction, there have been no changes to the M54.12 code through the 2025 edition. This stability is important for consistent coding and data tracking over time.
Understanding the code history helps professionals ensure they are using the correct and up-to-date code for cervical radiculopathy in the cervical region.
Related ICD-10-CM Codes
It’s also useful to be aware of ICD-10-CM codes that are adjacent to M54.12 in the coding manual. These related codes help to contextualize M54.12 within the broader classification system and differentiate it from similar conditions affecting other spinal regions. Codes adjacent to M54.12 include codes for radiculopathy in other regions such as:
- M54.11 – occipito-atlanto-axial region
- M54.13 – cervicothoracic region
- M54.14 – thoracic region
- M54.15 – thoracolumbar region
- M54.16 – lumbar region
- M54.17 – lumbosacral region
- M54.18 – sacral and sacrococcygeal region
Additionally, codes like M54.2 for Cervicalgia (neck pain) and other radiculopathy codes (M54.10 for site unspecified) are in the vicinity, highlighting the specificity of M54.12 for cervical radiculopathy.
Conclusion
In summary, ICD-10-CM code M54.12 is the precise diagnosis code for cervical radiculopathy. It is a billable, specific code within the American ICD-10-CM system, effective since 2016 with no changes through 2025. Understanding this code, its synonyms, history, and related codes is essential for accurate medical coding, billing, and data analysis related to cervical radiculopathy. Using the correct diagnosis code ensures proper communication and reimbursement within the healthcare system.
