Complex regional pain syndrome I of left upper limb

📋Clinical Description

This code signifies a chronic pain condition affecting the left upper limb, characterized by severe pain, swelling, changes in skin temperature and color, and limited range of motion, without evidence of nerve damage. It typically develops after an injury, surgery, stroke, or heart attack, but the pain is out of proportion to the initial event.

🎯When to Use

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type I (CRPS-I) specifically impacting the patient's left arm, hand, or shoulder. Supporting documentation should detail the characteristic symptoms of CRPS-I, such as allodynia, hyperalgesia, sudomotor abnormalities, and trophic changes, localized to the left upper extremity.

💡Coding Tips

Ensure the documentation explicitly states "Type I" or "reflex sympathetic dystrophy" and specifies the "left upper limb."
Do not confuse with CRPS Type II (G90.52-), which involves confirmed nerve injury.
Code any associated injuries or conditions that may have precipitated the CRPS as secondary diagnoses.

AI-generated reference — verify against official guidelines

Code Hierarchy

▲G90.51Complex regional pain syndrome I of upper limb

G90.512(current)

Crosswalks

337.21ApproxICD-9

Same Category

G90Disorders of autonomic nervous system G90.0Idiopathic peripheral autonomic neuropathy G90.01Carotid sinus syncope G90.09Other idiopathic peripheral autonomic neuropathy G90.1Familial dysautonomia [Riley-Day]