Carpal tunnel syndrome

This code represents carpal tunnel syndrome, a common mononeuropathy caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Patients typically experience pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and radial half of the ring finger, often worsening at night.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome based on clinical findings, nerve conduction studies, or electromyography. It is appropriate for both acute and chronic presentations of the condition.

• Differentiate from other neuropathies affecting the upper extremity, such as ulnar nerve entrapment (354.2) or radial nerve palsy (354.3).
• Ensure documentation specifies the affected side (e.g., right, left, bilateral) for laterality considerations in ICD-10-CM.
• Consider additional codes for any associated underlying conditions or complications, such as inflammatory arthritis.