ICD-10 Code G37.4 – Subacute necrotizing myelitis of central nervous system (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G37.4 – Subacute necrotizing myelitis of central nervous system
What it is
G37.4 identifies subacute necrotizing myelitis, a rare inflammatory disorder of the spinal cord that causes tissue damage and necrosis. Use it when documentation specifically names this diagnosis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical records may describe progressive spinal cord dysfunction, weakness, sensory loss, and sphincter disturbance, with imaging or specialist assessment supporting myelitis.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents subacute necrotizing myelitis or clearly identifies necrotizing inflammation of the spinal cord. It may appear in neurology, inpatient, or discharge notes when the diagnosis is established. If the record only says “myelitis” or another spinal cord disorder, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use G37.4 for unspecified myelitis, transverse myelitis, or other demyelinating diseases unless subacute necrotizing myelitis is explicitly documented. Check documentation if the cause or exact spinal cord diagnosis is unclear.
Coding tip
Assign G37.4 only when the wording is specific; otherwise query for the exact spinal cord diagnosis.