Nelson's syndrome

This code represents Nelson's syndrome, a rare endocrine disorder characterized by the rapid growth of a pituitary adenoma after bilateral adrenalectomy for Cushing's disease. Patients typically present with hyperpigmentation, visual field defects, and symptoms related to mass effect from the growing tumor. It results from the loss of negative feedback on the pituitary by adrenal corticosteroids.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with Nelson's syndrome following bilateral adrenalectomy. Documentation should clearly state the history of Cushing's disease, the bilateral adrenalectomy, and the subsequent development of a pituitary tumor with associated clinical features. Imaging reports confirming a pituitary adenoma in this context support its use.

• Always ensure documentation explicitly links the pituitary tumor to a prior bilateral adrenalectomy for Cushing's disease.
• Do not confuse with other types of pituitary adenomas or primary Cushing's disease.
• Code any associated visual field defects or other neurological complications separately.