ICD-10 Code G62.81 – Critical illness polyneuropathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G62.81 – Critical illness polyneuropathy
What it is
G62.81 identifies polyneuropathy that develops during or after a severe critical illness, usually in the setting of intensive care. It describes diffuse peripheral nerve dysfunction rather than a focal nerve injury.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include generalized limb weakness, reduced reflexes, and difficulty weaning from mechanical ventilation when the neuropathy is severe.
When to use this code
Use G62.81 when the provider documents critical illness polyneuropathy, critical care neuropathy, or a similar diagnosis linked to a severe systemic illness. Apply it when the neuropathy is the condition being treated or evaluated, not merely a nonspecific weakness. Check documentation if the record does not clearly connect the neuropathy to critical illness.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for peripheral neuropathy without a critical illness association, or for neuropathy caused by diabetes, alcohol, drugs, or another specified cause. Check documentation if the etiology is unclear.
Coding tip
Code the documented critical illness neuropathy directly and add the underlying critical illness only when supported by the record.