Cerebral edema

This code signifies an abnormal accumulation of fluid within the brain parenchyma, leading to increased intracranial pressure. This swelling can result from various underlying conditions, compromising cerebral function and potentially causing neurological deficits.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states cerebral edema as a diagnosis. This is appropriate for conditions such as traumatic brain injury, stroke, brain tumors, infections (e.g., encephalitis), or metabolic encephalopathies where brain swelling is a primary feature.

• Always code the underlying cause of the cerebral edema first, if known and documented.
• Distinguish from hydrocephalus (331.3-331.4), which involves excess cerebrospinal fluid, not parenchymal swelling.
• Look for specific documentation of "brain swelling," "intracranial edema," or "cerebral edema" in physician notes, imaging reports, or discharge summaries.