ICD-10 Code I60.9 – Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I60.9 – Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage, unspecified
What it is
I60.9 identifies a subarachnoid hemorrhage that is not due to trauma, but the exact cause or site is not specified. Use it when documentation confirms a nontraumatic bleed in the subarachnoid space and gives no further detail.
Clinical signs
Clinical features often include sudden severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea, vomiting, photophobia, or altered mental status. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use I60.9 when the record states nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage and does not identify a more specific artery, location, or cause. It also fits when imaging or specialist notes confirm SAH, but the documentation remains nonspecific. Check documentation before coding a more detailed I60 category.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage or for subarachnoid hemorrhage with a documented specific site or source that should be coded elsewhere. Do not assign it when the diagnosis is only suspected.
Coding tip
If the note names the bleeding source or vessel, code the specific I60 subcategory instead of the unspecified code.