ICD-10 Code G40.A11 – Absence Epileptic Syndrome, Intractable, with Status Epilepticus (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G40.A11 – Absence epileptic syndrome, intractable, with status epilepticus
What it is
This code identifies absence epilepsy that does not respond well to treatment and is complicated by status epilepticus. Use it when the record documents ongoing absence seizure syndrome with a prolonged or recurrent seizure state.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include brief staring spells, impaired awareness, and generalized nonmotor absence seizures. In status epilepticus, seizure activity is prolonged or repeated without full recovery; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider clearly documents absence epileptic syndrome as intractable and also states status epilepticus. It is appropriate for encounters focused on seizure evaluation, neurologic assessment, or management of a documented ongoing seizure state. Check documentation if the record does not specify both intractability and status epilepticus.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for simple absence seizures without intractability or without status epilepticus. Do not assign it when the chart only mentions epilepsy, seizure disorder, or an unspecified seizure type.
Coding tip
Verify that the note explicitly links absence epilepsy, intractability, and status epilepticus before assigning G40.A11.