Eclampsia complicating pregnancy, second trimester

This code signifies the acute onset of grand mal seizures (eclampsia) in a pregnant patient during her second trimester. Eclampsia is a severe complication of pre-eclampsia, characterized by hypertension, proteinuria, and often other organ system involvement. The seizures are not attributable to other cerebral conditions.

Use this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of eclampsia occurring specifically in the second trimester of pregnancy. This typically follows a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia and is confirmed by the presence of generalized tonic-clonic seizures. Documentation should specify the trimester.

• Always sequence this code as the principal diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.
• Do not use this code if the eclampsia occurs in the first or third trimester; specific codes exist for those periods.
• Ensure documentation differentiates eclamptic seizures from other seizure disorders or convulsions during pregnancy.