ICD-10 Code G96.810 – Intracranial hypotension, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code G96.810 – Intracranial hypotension, unspecified
What it is
G96.810 identifies intracranial hypotension when the cause is not specified. It means low pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid around the brain, often documented when the exact source is not yet known.
Clinical signs
Common findings include an orthostatic headache that worsens upright and improves when lying down. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for associated symptoms or imaging findings.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents intracranial hypotension without naming a specific cause. It may apply during evaluation of suspected spinal fluid leak or other low-pressure syndrome when the record remains nonspecific.
If later documentation identifies a more specific etiology, you should code that documented condition instead. Check documentation for whether the hypotension is postoperative, traumatic, or due to another stated cause.
Do not use for
Do not use G96.810 when the chart identifies a more specific intracranial hypotension diagnosis. It is also not for simple headache without documentation of low intracranial pressure.
Coding tip
Code the unspecified form only when the provider confirms intracranial hypotension and no cause is documented.