Cerebral atherosclerosis

This code represents the hardening and narrowing of the arteries supplying blood to the brain due to plaque buildup. This condition restricts blood flow, potentially leading to transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) or ischemic strokes. It is a form of arteriosclerosis specifically affecting the cerebral vasculature.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of cerebral atherosclerosis, arteriosclerosis of cerebral arteries, or hardening of the brain arteries. This diagnosis is often supported by imaging studies such as MRA, CTA, or carotid duplex ultrasound showing atherosclerotic changes in the intracranial or extracranial cerebral vessels.

• Do not confuse with carotid artery atherosclerosis (433.10-433.11), which is a distinct diagnosis.
• If cerebral atherosclerosis is documented as causing a stroke or TIA, sequence the stroke/TIA code first, then this code as a secondary diagnosis.
• Ensure documentation specifies "cerebral" to differentiate from generalized atherosclerosis or atherosclerosis of other specific arteries.