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ICD-10 Coding for Fatigue Unspecified(R53.82)

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

Also known as:

Chronic FatigueGeneral Fatigue

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Fatigue Unspecified

R53.8Primary Range

Other malaise and fatigue

This range includes codes for various unspecified fatigue conditions, including chronic fatigue when no specific cause is identified.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for unspecified fatigue

Essential facts and insights about Fatigue Unspecified

The ICD-10 code for unspecified fatigue is R53.82, used when fatigue persists for 6 months or more without an identifiable cause.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for fatigue unspecified

Chronic fatigue, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Fatigue persists for 6 months or more with no identifiable cause.

documentation Criteria

  • Document exclusion of other conditions through comprehensive workup.

Applicable To

  • Chronic fatigue syndrome, unspecified

Excludes

  • Fatigue due to depression (F32-F33)
  • Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (G93.32)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Fatigue persists for 6 months or more
  • No identifiable cause after comprehensive workup
  • Impairment in daily activities

Code-Specific Risks

  • Overuse of unspecified codes when more specific codes are applicable.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure all potential underlying causes are ruled out before using R53.82.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other fatigue

R53.83
Use for acute or subacute fatigue lasting less than 6 months.

Differential Codes

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

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome

G93.32
Requires documentation of specific symptoms like post-exertional malaise and cognitive dysfunction.

Depressive episode, unspecified

F32.9
Use when fatigue is secondary to depression.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fatigue Unspecified to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code R53.82.

Impact

Clinical: Misdiagnosis risk., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Thorough workup and documentation of normal test results.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate health records and statistics.

Mitigation Strategy

Identify and code the underlying condition first.

Impact

Overuse of R53.82 without proper documentation.

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 Fatigue Unspecified, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Fatigue Unspecified

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

Chronic fatigue with no identifiable cause

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Duration of fatigue
  • Impact on daily activities
  • Exclusion of other conditions

Example Documentation

Patient reports fatigue lasting 8 months, impacting ability to work full-time. Normal TSH, CBC, and no depression on PHQ-9.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient feels tired.
Good Documentation Example
Fatigue present daily for 8 months, unchanged by 8hr sleep. Unable to work full-time. Normal TSH, CBC, CRP, ANA. No depression on PHQ-9.
Explanation
The good example provides specific duration, impact, and exclusion of other causes.

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

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