Polyneuropathy in collagen vascular disease

This code signifies a generalized disorder affecting multiple peripheral nerves (polyneuropathy) that arises as a complication or manifestation of a collagen vascular disease. It indicates nerve damage resulting from systemic autoimmune or inflammatory conditions impacting connective tissues.

Apply this code when documentation clearly links a patient's polyneuropathy to an underlying collagen vascular disease, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, or scleroderma. The physician's notes should explicitly state the association between the two conditions.

• Ensure the medical record explicitly states the polyneuropathy is due to or associated with a collagen vascular disease.
• Always code the underlying collagen vascular disease first, as this is the primary etiology.
• Differentiate from polyneuropathy due to other systemic diseases (e.g., diabetes) or idiopathic causes.