Papilledema associated with increased intracranial pressure

This code signifies swelling of the optic disc due to elevated pressure within the skull. It indicates that the papilledema is a direct consequence of increased intracranial pressure, rather than an isolated ocular finding. This condition can be a critical sign of underlying neurological pathology.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly links papilledema to a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of increased intracranial pressure. This typically occurs in scenarios such as hydrocephalus, intracranial tumors, or idiopathic intracranial hypertension. Supporting documentation should include ophthalmological findings of optic disc edema and clinical or imaging evidence of elevated ICP.

• Do not use this code for papilledema without documented evidence of increased intracranial pressure; consider H47.19 for other forms of papilledema.
• Always sequence this code after the underlying cause of the increased intracranial pressure, if known and documented.
• Ensure the physician's documentation clearly states the association between the papilledema and the elevated intracranial pressure.