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ICD-10 Coding for Pervasive Developmental Disorder(F84.9, F84.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Pervasive Developmental Disorder. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

PDDAtypical AutismPDD-NOS

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Pervasive Developmental Disorder

F80-F89Primary Range

Disorders of psychological development

This range includes pervasive developmental disorders, which encompass various developmental disorders including autism spectrum disorders.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
F84.9Pervasive developmental disorder, unspecifiedUse when documentation specifies atypical autism or PDD-NOS without meeting criteria for other ASD subtypes.
  • Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale ≤70
  • Discrepancy ≥15 points between verbal/nonverbal IQ
F84.0Autistic disorderUse when all three core domains of ASD are impaired.
  • Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS) ≥30
  • Documented symptom onset before age 3

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 pervasive developmental disorder

Essential facts and insights about Pervasive Developmental Disorder

The ICD-10 code for pervasive developmental disorder, unspecified, is F84.9.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for pervasive developmental disorder

Pervasive developmental disorder, unspecified
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Patient exhibits atypical autism symptoms without meeting full ASD criteria.

Applicable To

  • Atypical autism
  • PDD-NOS

Excludes

  • Autistic disorder (F84.0)
  • Asperger's syndrome (F84.5)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale ≤70
  • Discrepancy ≥15 points between verbal/nonverbal IQ

Code-Specific Risks

  • Using unspecified codes without documented rationale may lead to audits.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure detailed documentation of developmental history and current impairments.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other symbolic dysfunctions

R48.8
For social communication deficits without full ASD criteria.

Differential Codes

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

Autistic disorder

F84.0
Requires documented impairments in all three domains: social interaction, communication, and restricted behaviors.

Pervasive developmental disorder, unspecified

F84.9
Lack of all three ASD core domains.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Pervasive Developmental Disorder to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code F84.9.

Impact

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

Mitigation Strategy

Use standardized assessment tools., Document specific symptoms.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: May trigger audits due to vague documentation., Data Quality: Inaccurate data collection for ASD prevalence.

Mitigation Strategy

Query for clarification if terms like 'high-functioning autism' are used.

Impact

Use of unspecified codes without justification.

Mitigation Strategy

Provide detailed documentation and rationale for code selection.

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 Pervasive Developmental Disorder, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Pervasive Developmental Disorder

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Pervasive Developmental Disorder. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Developmental Pediatrics Consultation

Specialty: Pediatrics

Required Elements

  • Developmental history
  • Behavioral observations
  • Standardized measures

Example Documentation

Patient exhibits subthreshold autism features with atypical symptom profile.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has PDD.
Good Documentation Example
Patient meets DSM-5 criteria for ASD but exhibits atypical symptom profile with delayed echolalia.
Explanation
The good example provides specific symptoms and assessment scores.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Pervasive Developmental Disorder? Ask your questions below.

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