Mild cognitive impairment of uncertain or unknown etiology

This code represents a decline in cognitive function that is greater than expected for a person's age and education level, but not severe enough to interfere significantly with daily activities. The underlying cause of this cognitive decline is not yet identified or is unclear.

Use this code when a patient presents with objective evidence of cognitive impairment (e.g., memory, language, executive function) that does not meet the criteria for dementia, and the clinician has not determined a specific etiology. Documentation should reflect a thorough workup ruling out other known causes of cognitive decline.

• Do not use this code if a specific cause for the mild cognitive impairment has been identified (e.g., head injury, cerebrovascular disease).
• Carefully review documentation to differentiate between age-related cognitive changes and true mild cognitive impairment.
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, unless another condition is clearly driving the patient's care.