ICD-10 Code I61 – Nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I61 – Nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage
What it is
I61 identifies bleeding within the brain tissue that is not caused by trauma. Use it when the record documents a spontaneous intracerebral hemorrhage, including cases linked to underlying vascular disease or hypertension.
Clinical signs
Common findings include sudden neurologic deficit, headache, vomiting, altered consciousness, or focal weakness. Imaging, usually CT or MRI, confirms blood within the cerebral parenchyma; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I61 when the provider documents nontraumatic bleeding in the brain substance, such as intracerebral hemorrhage, hemorrhagic stroke, or spontaneous cerebral hemorrhage. Code the documented site and laterality only if the record supports it. If the cause is unclear, check documentation before assigning a more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use I61 for traumatic intracranial bleeding, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or other specified intracranial hemorrhage categories. Do not assume intracerebral hemorrhage when the note only says “stroke” without confirmation.
Coding tip
Match the code to the provider’s exact wording and imaging-confirmed diagnosis; if the documentation is nonspecific, query for clarification.