Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-04-07

Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) is classified under the ICD-10 code G71.01 (Muscular dystrophy, oculopharyngeal) and the ICD-9 code 359.1 (Hereditary progressive muscular dystrophy). These codes are used by healthcare providers to standardize the identification and billing of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy within clinical settings. What is the clinical significance of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy? Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy is a rare, late-onset genetic disorder characterized primarily by progressive weakness of the muscles around the eyes (oculopharyngeal) and the throat (pharyngeal).

3 people with Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.

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ICD10 code of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy and ICD9 code

ICD-10 and ICD-9 codes for Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy, with classification details for clinicians, coders and patients.

ICD9 and ICD10 codes of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy

Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (OPMD) is classified under the ICD-10 code G71.01 (Muscular dystrophy, oculopharyngeal) and the ICD-9 code 359.1 (Hereditary progressive muscular dystrophy). These codes are used by healthcare providers to standardize the identification and billing of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy within clinical settings.



What is the clinical significance of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy?


Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy is a rare, late-onset genetic disorder characterized primarily by progressive weakness of the muscles around the eyes (oculopharyngeal) and the throat (pharyngeal). While the ICD-10 code G71.01 helps professionals track the condition, the disease itself typically manifests in the fifth or sixth decade of life. Our community at DiseaseMaps.org currently supports 164 individuals living with Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy, providing a vital space for sharing experiences regarding the slow, progressive nature of the muscle atrophy associated with this specific condition.



Is Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy hereditary?


Yes, Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy is an inherited condition typically following an autosomal dominant pattern. This means that an individual only needs one copy of the mutated PABPN1 gene from one parent to develop the disease. Because Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy is genetic, clinical geneticists often recommend genetic counseling for families to understand the 50% recurrence risk for offspring. Understanding the genetic basis of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy is essential for accurate diagnosis, as it distinguishes this condition from other forms of myopathy.



How is Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy diagnosed and managed?


Diagnosis of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, electromyography (EMG), and genetic testing for the expansion of the GCG trinucleotide repeat in the PABPN1 gene. Because there is no current cure, management focuses on supportive care to improve quality of life. Common clinical interventions for Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy include:



  • Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty/ptosis surgery): To correct drooping eyelids that obstruct vision.

  • Speech and swallowing therapy: To manage dysphagia and reduce the risk of aspiration.

  • Nutritional support: Dietary modifications or, in advanced cases, surgical interventions to assist with safe swallowing.

  • Regular monitoring: Routine follow-ups with neurologists specializing in neuromuscular disorders to track progression.



What is the psychological impact of living with Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy?


Living with a progressive condition like Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy can be emotionally taxing. Many patients experience anxiety regarding the loss of physical function, particularly regarding swallowing and vision. Psychologists specializing in rare diseases emphasize that finding a community, such as the 164 members on DiseaseMaps.org, is a powerful tool for emotional regulation. Connecting with others who understand the unique challenges of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy can significantly reduce the sense of isolation that often accompanies rare neuromuscular diagnoses.



Next steps



  • Consult a neurologist specializing in neuromuscular diseases for a comprehensive care plan.

  • Request a referral to a genetic counselor to discuss the inheritance patterns of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy.

  • Schedule an evaluation with a speech-language pathologist (SLP) to assess swallowing safety, even if symptoms seem mild.

  • Join the DiseaseMaps.org community to connect with other patients and caregivers navigating life with Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy.



Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.



References



  • Orphanet: Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy (ORPHA:589)

  • NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy

  • OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man): Muscular Dystrophy, Oculopharyngeal; OPMD (#164300)

  • PubMed: Clinical and genetic overview of Oculopharyngeal muscular dystrophy

Medical disclaimer: This information does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor before making health decisions.
Source: DiseaseMaps.org
4 answers
According to the internet search for Oculopharyngeal Muscular Dystrophy (OPMD), the specific ICD-10 code is G71.09

Posted Jan 6, 2026 by OPMD Association
Is the 10th revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD), a medical classification list by the World Health Organization (WHO). It contains codes for diseases, signs and symptoms, abnormal findings, complaints, social circumstances, and external causes of injury or diseases

Posted May 18, 2017 by Monica 2150
https://www.icd10data.com/ICD10CM/Codes/G00-G99/G70-G73/G71-/G71.09

And

http://www.icd9data.com/2015/Volume1/320-389/350-359/359/359.1.htm

Are two good online sites for answers to this question.

Posted Feb 22, 2021 by James 2500

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