Discover free eBooks, guides and med spa templates on our new resources page

Book a demo
☰
Why us
ICD Hub / Diseases of the nervous system (G00–G99) / 8A00.23 - Vascular parkinsonism
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for 8A00.23 - Vascular parkinsonism
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
Use Code

Understanding the Origins of Vascular Parkinsonism

Vascular parkinsonism (VP) arises from impaired blood flow within the brain, primarily due to cerebrovascular disease. This can manifest as small blood vessel strokes, a lack of adequate blood supply to the brain's white matter, or larger strokes affecting critical areas. Lacunar strokes, which occur when arteries supplying the brain's deep structures become blocked, are particularly associated with VP. Strokes impacting the basal ganglia are also more likely to lead to this condition. Key risk factors for vascular parkinsonism mirror those for cerebrovascular disease. These include hypertension (high blood pressure), diabetes, elevated cholesterol levels, and other cardiovascular conditions such as atherosclerosis and carotid artery disease. Smoking is also identified as a significant risk factor. The presence of multiple lacunar infarcts or diffuse vascular disease in the brain can result in parkinsonian symptoms.

What is Vascular Parkinsonism?

Vascular parkinsonism (VP) is a neurological condition characterised by symptoms resembling parkinsonism, stemming from issues with the brain's blood vessels. Parkinsonism itself is a broader term encompassing brain disorders that lead to slowed movements, rigidity, and tremors. In VP, the movement-related symptoms typically manifest predominantly in the lower body, causing unsteadiness during walking. This condition accounts for a notable percentage of all parkinsonism cases, ranking as the second most common age-related degenerative brain disease after Parkinson's disease. It is classified under secondary parkinsonism within the ICD-11 framework.

Diagnosing Vascular Parkinsonism

The diagnostic process for vascular parkinsonism typically begins with a comprehensive physical and neurological examination conducted by a healthcare professional, often a neurologist. A detailed medical history is crucial, with particular attention paid to any history of stroke or other risk factors for cerebrovascular disease. To confirm the diagnosis and identify underlying vascular damage, imaging tests of the brain are usually requested. These may include CT scans, MRI scans, or cerebral angiograms, which can reveal evidence of past strokes or brain lesions. In some instances, a dopamine transporter scan might be performed, with results potentially being normal or abnormal depending on the location of vascular damage. Imaging often shows multiple lacunar infarcts or diffuse white matter changes in the brain.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Vascular Parkinsonism

Individuals with vascular parkinsonism often experience distinct symptoms affecting movement and balance. Common presentations include a shuffling or freezing gait, making walking difficult, and a general unsteadiness. Unlike some other forms of parkinsonism, resting tremors are not a typical feature, and the condition often shows less responsiveness to levodopa, a common medication for Parkinson's disease. The motor symptoms in VP tend to affect the lower body more significantly than the upper body. Beyond motor difficulties, other potential features may include cognitive impairment (dementia), mood changes such as pseudobulbar affect (uncontrollable laughter or crying), difficulties with swallowing and speaking, and loss of bladder and bowel control (incontinence).

Coding and Documentation for Vascular Parkinsonism

The official ICD-11 code for Vascular parkinsonism is **8A00.23**. This condition falls under the broader category of Secondary parkinsonism (8A00.2), which itself is part of the Parkinsonism classification (8A00). When documenting and coding for vascular parkinsonism, it is essential to note its association with cerebrovascular disease, including strokes and lacunar infarcts. Depending on the patient's specific clinical presentation and history, additional ICD-11 codes may be required to accurately capture related conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, or specific types of cerebrovascular events. Imaging findings, like multiple lacunar infarcts or diffuse white matter changes, and results from dopamine transporter scans are important details for comprehensive documentation.

Managing Vascular Parkinsonism

Currently, there is no definitive cure for vascular parkinsonism, as the brain damage is typically permanent. Management focuses on addressing the symptoms and preventing further progression, particularly by managing stroke risk factors. Treatment strategies often involve a multidisciplinary approach. Physical and occupational therapy play a crucial role in helping patients manage walking difficulties and improve their balance. Stroke prevention is a paramount aspect of care, as subsequent strokes can exacerbate the condition and negatively impact overall health. Healthcare teams develop personalised plans to manage identified risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. While levodopa, a standard treatment for Parkinson's disease, is generally less effective for VP, other symptomatic treatments may be considered.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification for Vascular parkinsonism?
Vascular parkinsonism is classified under ICD-11 code 8A00.23. This code falls within the category of Secondary parkinsonism (8A00.2), which is part of the broader Parkinsonism (8A00) classification.
How is Vascular parkinsonism defined within the ICD-11 classification system?
Within ICD-11, Vascular parkinsonism is defined as a parkinsonian syndrome that occurs in relation to cerebrovascular disease.
Can additional details be added when coding Vascular parkinsonism in ICD-11?
Yes, ICD-11 permits post-coordination for Vascular parkinsonism (8A00.23) to add further detail, such as specifying manifestations of the condition.
What is the relationship between Vascular parkinsonism and other Parkinsonism codes in ICD-11?
Vascular parkinsonism is categorized as a type of secondary parkinsonism in ICD-11, indicating that the parkinsonian syndrome is associated with a known underlying cause, specifically vascular disease.
×