ICD-10 Code G96.01 – Cranial cerebrospinal fluid leak, spontaneous (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G96.01 – Cranial cerebrospinal fluid leak, spontaneous
What it is
This code identifies a spontaneous leak of cerebrospinal fluid from the cranial region, meaning fluid escapes through an abnormal opening without a known traumatic or surgical cause.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include clear watery drainage from the nose or ear, positional headaches, or symptoms suggesting low cerebrospinal fluid pressure. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use G96.01 when the record documents a spontaneous cranial CSF leak, such as a confirmed leak from the skull base or another intracranial source. Apply it when the provider clearly states the leak is spontaneous and not due to trauma, surgery, or another documented cause.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for traumatic, postoperative, or iatrogenic cerebrospinal fluid leaks. If the documentation does not specify a spontaneous cranial source, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm the source and cause in the note; “CSF leak” alone is not enough for G96.01.