ICD-10 Code G72.1 – Alcoholic myopathy (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G72.1 – Alcoholic myopathy
What it is
G72.1 identifies muscle disease caused by alcohol use. It is used when documentation supports alcohol-related muscle weakness or wasting rather than another neuromuscular disorder.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include proximal muscle weakness, muscle pain, and reduced muscle bulk. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the specific pattern and severity.
When to use this code
Use G72.1 when the provider documents alcoholic myopathy, alcohol-related muscle degeneration, or a similar diagnosis. It may apply when weakness is attributed to chronic alcohol exposure and not better explained by another cause. Check documentation if the record is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for generalized weakness without a documented myopathy. Also avoid it when the muscle disorder is due to another specified cause, such as a different toxic, inflammatory, or hereditary condition.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider links the muscle disorder to alcohol use before assigning G72.1.