Migraine, unspecified, intractable, with status migrainosus

This code describes a severe, prolonged migraine attack of unknown type that is resistant to standard treatment. The "intractable" designation indicates the migraine is difficult to manage, while "status migrainosus" signifies a debilitating migraine lasting over 72 hours.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states an unspecified migraine that has become intractable and meets the criteria for status migrainosus. This typically involves patients presenting to the emergency department or admitted for prolonged, severe migraine unresponsive to outpatient therapies.

• Ensure physician documentation explicitly states "intractable" and "status migrainosus" in addition to "migraine."
• Do not use this code if the specific type of migraine (e.g., with aura, without aura) is documented; instead, use the more specific code from the G43.1 or G43.0 series with the intractable and status migrainosus indicators.
• Consider any associated symptoms or complications (e.g., dehydration, nausea, vomiting) for additional coding, but sequence the migraine as the primary diagnosis if it is the reason for the encounter.