Subacute thyroiditis

This code represents an inflammatory condition of the thyroid gland, typically following a viral infection, characterized by transient hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism, and often associated with neck pain. It is a self-limiting condition, also known as de Quervain's thyroiditis or granulomatous thyroiditis.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with subacute thyroiditis based on clinical presentation, laboratory findings (e.g., elevated ESR, transient thyroid hormone abnormalities), and imaging if performed. Documentation should clearly indicate the diagnosis of subacute thyroiditis, distinguishing it from other forms of thyroiditis.

• Differentiate from other forms of thyroiditis, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis (autoimmune) or infectious thyroiditis, which have distinct ICD-9-CM codes.
• Ensure documentation specifies "subacute" to support this particular code.
• Consider sequencing this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it is an co-existing condition affecting patient management.