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ICD-10 Coding for Chronic Fatigue(G93.32, R53.82)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Chronic Fatigue. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Chronic Fatigue SyndromeMyalgic EncephalomyelitisME/CFS

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Chronic Fatigue

G93.3Primary Range

Postviral fatigue syndrome and related conditions

This range includes specific codes for chronic fatigue conditions, including ME/CFS and postviral fatigue.

Other malaise and fatigue

This range includes codes for unspecified chronic fatigue not meeting criteria for ME/CFS.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
G93.32Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)Use when ME/CFS diagnosis meets IOM/CDC criteria.
  • Symptoms persist ≥6 months
  • Post-exertional malaise
  • Unrefreshing sleep
  • + 1 more
R53.82Chronic fatigue, unspecifiedUse when chronic fatigue is present but does not meet ME/CFS criteria.
  • Chronic fatigue unexplained by other conditions
  • Normal CBC, TSH, CRP, ANA

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for chronic fatigue syndrome

Essential facts and insights about Chronic Fatigue

The ICD-10 code for chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is G93.32, used when criteria are met.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for chronic fatigue

Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Symptoms persist ≥6 months with PEM, unrefreshing sleep, and orthostatic intolerance.

Applicable To

  • Myalgic Encephalomyelitis
  • Systemic Exertion Intolerance Disease

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Symptoms persist ≥6 months
  • Post-exertional malaise
  • Unrefreshing sleep
  • Orthostatic intolerance

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly used with R53.82
  • Requires specific documentation of ME/CFS criteria

Coding Notes

  • Ensure ME/CFS criteria are documented clearly.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Post COVID-19 condition, unspecified

U09.9
Use to indicate post-COVID linkage when ME/CFS is present.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Chronic fatigue, unspecified

R53.82
Use when chronic fatigue does not meet ME/CFS criteria.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

G93.32
Use when ME/CFS criteria are met.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Chronic Fatigue to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code G93.32.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure lab tests are documented., Review patient history thoroughly.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Violates Excludes1 note rules., Data Quality: Affects accuracy of health records.

Mitigation Strategy

Use G93.32 only if ME/CFS criteria are met; otherwise, use R53.82.

Impact

Using R53.82 without excluding other conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure comprehensive documentation of exclusion criteria.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Chronic Fatigue, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Chronic Fatigue

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Chronic Fatigue. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Neurology Progress Note for ME/CFS

Specialty: Neurology

Required Elements

  • Subjective symptoms
  • Objective findings
  • Assessment
  • Plan

Example Documentation

**Subjective:** "34yo F with 14mo hx of severe fatigue. Reports: PEM after 15min computer work, cognitive 'fog', orthostatic lightheadedness. **Objective:** Tilt test: HR ↑38bpm at 7min, presyncope. 2-day CPET: VO₂ max ↓16% on day 2. Labs: Normal CBC, TSH, ANA, CRP. **Assessment:** G93.32 ME/CFS, meets IOM criteria. **Plan:** Pacing protocol; fludrocortisone trial for orthostasis.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient reports fatigue.
Good Documentation Example
Fatigue reduces daily activity to 40% of baseline for 8 months; PEM occurs 12-24hrs after minimal exertion, lasting 2-3 days.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the impact of fatigue and meets documentation requirements for ME/CFS.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Chronic Fatigue? Ask your questions below.

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