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ICD-10-CM 2027

ICD-10 code for lateral sclerosis

G12.21

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Sclerosis, sclerotic › lateral (amyotrophic) (descending) (spinal)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.

About coding lateral sclerosis

The ICD-10-CM code for lateral sclerosis is G12.21 (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on G12.21.

Within G12.2 (motor neuron disease), G12.21 is specifically for Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Related codes cover unspecified (G12.20), progressive bulbar palsy (G12.22), primary lateral sclerosis (G12.23), familial motor neuron disease (G12.24), progressive spinal muscle atrophy (G12.25) and other motor neuron disease (G12.29).

As a secondary diagnosis it is a CC (complication or comorbidity), which can move an inpatient stay into the "with CC" MS-DRG of its family, unless the principal diagnosis excludes it.

In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 056 (Degenerative Nervous System Disorders with MCC, relative weight 2.2655) and DRG 057 (Degenerative Nervous System Disorders without MCC, relative weight 1.2838), in MDC 01 (Diseases and Disorders of the Nervous System), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.

More specific lateral sclerosis codes (official index)

  • primary G12.23 — Primary lateral sclerosis

Common questions about lateral sclerosis ICD-10 codes

What is the ICD-10 code for lateral sclerosis?

G12.21 — Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: G12.23.

What is the ICD-10 code for primary lateral sclerosis?

G12.23 — Primary lateral sclerosis.

Is G12.21 billable?

Yes. G12.21 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).

Can G12.21 be used as a principal diagnosis?

Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict G12.21 as a principal diagnosis.

Is G12.21 a CC or MCC?

G12.21 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.