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ICD Hub / Sleep–wake disorders (G47) / 7A40.0 - Primary central sleep apnoea
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for 7A40.0 - Primary central sleep apnoea
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Understanding Primary Central Sleep Apnoea (ICD-11 Code 7A40.0)

Primary central sleep apnoea, identified by ICD-11 code 7A40.0, is a sleep-related breathing disorder. It is characterised by recurrent episodes of absent or reduced respiratory effort during sleep. This condition is defined by its idiopathic aetiology, meaning its cause is unknown. It involves repetitive, simultaneous cessation of airflow and respiratory effort throughout the night.

Key Symptoms of Primary Central Sleep Apnoea

Individuals with Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0) often report significant daytime sleepiness and disturbed sleep. They may experience sudden awakenings with shortness of breath (dyspnoea) and complain of insomnia or frequent arousals. Snoring can also be a symptom, and partners may witness pauses in breathing during sleep. The condition is typically associated with more than five apnoea events per hour.

Causes and Risk Factors for ICD-11 Code 7A40.0

The specific aetiology for Primary central sleep apnoea (ICD-11 code 7A40.0) is not identified, hence it is classified as idiopathic. It represents a distinct form of central sleep apnoea where no underlying medical condition is found to be the direct cause.

How Primary Central Sleep Apnoea is Diagnosed

Establishing a diagnosis for Primary central sleep apnoea requires objective confirmation through a polysomnography, commonly known as a sleep study. The diagnostic criteria typically involve identifying at least five central apnoeas or central hypopnoeas per hour of sleep. These events must constitute 50% or more of the total respiratory disturbances measured within the Apnea-Hypopnea Index.

Managing Primary Central Sleep Apnoea

Management for Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0) focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving sleep quality, as the underlying cause is unknown. Treatment approaches may include supportive therapies aimed at maintaining airway patency or regulating breathing during sleep. These can involve positive airway pressure devices or supplemental oxygen, tailored to the individual's specific clinical presentation and severity. Primary central sleep apnoea is also frequently referred to as idiopathic sleep apnoea. It falls under the broader classification of central sleep apnoeas (ICD-11 code 7A40).

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification for Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0)?
Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0) is classified under Central sleep apnoeas (7A40). It is characterized by recurrent, predominantly central apnoeas of unknown etiology, where airflow and respiratory effort cease simultaneously in a repetitive fashion during sleep.
How is Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0) distinguished from other central sleep apnoea subtypes?
Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0) is distinguished by its unknown etiology. It is distinct from subtypes such as Primary central sleep apnoea of infancy (7A40.1) and Primary central sleep apnoea of prematurity (7A40.2), which are coded separately.
What are the coding considerations for Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0)?
A definitive diagnosis of Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0) requires objective evidence, typically based on polysomnography. When coding, it is important to distinguish it from specific subtypes such as Primary central sleep apnoea of infancy (7A40.1) or prematurity (7A40.2), which are coded separately.
What does 'unknown etiology' mean in the context of Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0)?
'Unknown etiology' for Primary central sleep apnoea (7A40.0) signifies that no specific underlying medical condition or cause has been identified for the recurrent central apnoeas. It is also referred to as idiopathic.
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