ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for encephalopathy wernicke's
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Wernicke's › encephalopathy”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding encephalopathy wernicke's
The ICD-10-CM code for encephalopathy wernicke's is E51.2 (Wernicke's encephalopathy).
Within E51 (thiamine deficiency), E51.2 is specifically for Wernicke's encephalopathy. Related codes cover beriberi (E51.1), other manifestations of thiamine deficiency (E51.8) and unspecified (E51.9).
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 640 (Miscellaneous Disorders of Nutrition, Metabolism, Fluids and Electrolytes with MCC, relative weight 1.3395) and DRG 641 (Miscellaneous Disorders of Nutrition, Metabolism, Fluids and Electrolytes without MCC, relative weight 0.7865), in MDC 10 (Endocrine, Nutritional and Metabolic Diseases and Disorders), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
Common questions about encephalopathy wernicke's ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for encephalopathy wernicke's?
- E51.2 — Wernicke's encephalopathy.
Is E51.2 billable?
- Yes. E51.2 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can E51.2 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict E51.2 as a principal diagnosis.
Is E51.2 a CC or MCC?
- E51.2 is a CC (complication or comorbidity) under MS-DRG v44.0, unless excluded by the principal diagnosis.