Essential and other specified forms of tremor

This code represents a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary, rhythmic muscle contractions that cause shaking or trembling in one or more body parts. It primarily refers to essential tremor, the most common movement disorder, but also includes other specified forms of tremor that are not secondary to another condition or drug. The tremor is often postural or kinetic, meaning it occurs when holding a position or during voluntary movement.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of essential tremor, familial tremor, or other forms of tremor that are idiopathic or not otherwise classified. This code is appropriate when the tremor is the primary diagnosis and not a symptom of another underlying neurological disease like Parkinson's or multiple sclerosis. Supporting documentation should include a physician's diagnosis and notes detailing the characteristics and absence of other causative factors for the tremor.

• Differentiate from tremors secondary to other conditions (e.g., Parkinson's disease, hyperthyroidism, drug-induced tremor), which have their own specific codes.
• Ensure the physician's documentation explicitly states "essential tremor" or a similar idiopathic tremor diagnosis.
• Avoid using this code for unspecified tremor or tremors that are clearly symptomatic of another primary diagnosis.