Tropical spastic paraplegia

This code represents a chronic, progressive neurological disorder characterized by weakness and stiffness in the legs, often accompanied by sensory disturbances and bladder dysfunction. It is primarily associated with infection by the Human T-lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), leading to demyelination and axonal loss in the spinal cord.

Assign this code for patients diagnosed with Tropical Spastic Paraplegia (TSP), also known as HTLV-1 Associated Myelopathy (HAM). Documentation should clearly indicate a diagnosis of TSP/HAM, often supported by serological evidence of HTLV-1 infection and characteristic neurological findings.

• Ensure documentation specifies "Tropical Spastic Paraplegia" or "HTLV-1 Associated Myelopathy" to differentiate from other forms of spastic paraplegia.
• Consider co-reporting codes for HTLV-1 infection (B94.8) if explicitly documented and relevant to the encounter.
• Do not confuse with hereditary spastic paraplegia (G11.4) or other non-tropical causes of spasticity.