Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-07
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is primarily classified under the ICD-10 code G60.0, which refers to hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy. In the older ICD-9-CM classification system, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is most commonly coded as 356.1. What is Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and how is it classified? Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a group of inherited disorders that cause nerve damage, primarily in the arms and legs.
9 people with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is primarily classified under the ICD-10 code G60.0, which refers to hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy. In the older ICD-9-CM classification system, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is most commonly coded as 356.1.
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a group of inherited disorders that cause nerve damage, primarily in the arms and legs. It is characterized by progressive muscle weakness, atrophy, and sensory loss. Because there are many genetic subtypes of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, medical coding helps clinicians and researchers track the progression and prevalence of these specific neuropathies. While G60.0 is the standard ICD-10 code, clinicians may also use additional codes to document specific complications such as foot deformities or chronic pain.
The clinical presentation of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease often begins with distal muscle weakness and sensory changes. Patients frequently experience high arches (pes cavus), hammertoes, and foot drop, which can lead to frequent falls and balance issues. As the condition affects the peripheral nervous system, individuals often report a "burning" sensation in the feet, cold extremities, and chronic fatigue. In some variants of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, patients may also face difficulties with swallowing or respiratory muscle weakness, necessitating a multidisciplinary care approach.
Currently, there is no cure for Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, so management focuses on maintaining mobility and quality of life. At DiseaseMaps.org, our community of 1,193 members highlights the importance of a coordinated care team. Standard management strategies include:
Yes, Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a genetic condition. It can be inherited in an autosomal dominant, autosomal recessive, or X-linked pattern depending on the specific gene mutation involved. Genetic counseling is highly recommended for families to understand the inheritance risks for future generations. Because the symptoms of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease can vary significantly even within the same family, clinical genetic testing is often required to confirm the specific type and prognostic outlook.
Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.