ICD-10 Code E71.520 – Childhood cerebral X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code E71.520 – Childhood cerebral X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy
What it is
E71.520 identifies childhood cerebral X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy, a genetic disorder that affects the brain and nervous system. It reflects a specific form of adrenoleukodystrophy with childhood onset and cerebral involvement.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical records may describe progressive neurologic decline, behavioral or school difficulties, vision or hearing changes, and loss of motor skills consistent with cerebral white matter disease.
When to use this code
Use this code when the diagnosis is documented as childhood cerebral X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy or an equivalent term. It is appropriate for confirmed cases, problem lists, and encounters focused on monitoring or evaluation of this inherited neurologic condition.
Code it when the record clearly identifies the cerebral childhood form rather than another adrenoleukodystrophy subtype. If the documentation only says adrenoleukodystrophy, check documentation for the exact variant before assigning E71.520.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific leukodystrophy, adult-onset disease, or adrenal findings without documented cerebral ALD. Check documentation if the chart does not specify the childhood cerebral X-linked form.
Coding tip
Confirm the exact subtype and age-related wording in the note before coding, because adrenoleukodystrophy codes differ by presentation.