ICD-10 Code G96.191 – Perineural cyst (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G96.191 – Perineural cyst
What it is
Perineural cyst is a cerebrospinal fluid-filled sac that forms around a spinal nerve root, most often in the sacral region. Use this code when the record identifies a perineural, or Tarlov, cyst.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Patients may have back pain, radicular pain, numbness, or incidental imaging findings, but some cysts cause no symptoms.
When to use this code
Use G96.191 when the provider documents a perineural cyst as the confirmed diagnosis, typically based on imaging or specialist evaluation. It is appropriate for symptomatic or incidental cysts if the note clearly identifies the lesion. If the chart only mentions a nonspecific spinal cyst, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for other meningeal cysts, arachnoid cysts, or general nerve root pain without documentation of a perineural cyst. If the diagnosis is uncertain, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm the exact cyst type and spinal location in the radiology or specialist report before assigning G96.191.