ICD 10 CM F19.220 | Description & Clinical Information

ICD 10 F19.220 describes a condition in which an individual is unable to cease the use of a psychoactive substance that results in high levels of the substance in their bloodstream, without experiencing delirium or perceptual disturbance, and is typically documented by a healthcare provider who notes the use of a psychoactive substance or psychotropic drug that is not represented by another code, or the use of multiple substances (polysubstance) or nonselective (indiscriminate) drug use.

Official Description Of F19.220

The ICD 10 CM book defines ICD 10 code F19.220 as:

When To Use F19.220

The diagnosis describes by the ICD 10 CM F19.220 code relates to a range of psychoactive substances with the potential to create changes in mood, consciousness, and even cause dependence. When individuals use psychoactive substances, they may experience altered states of consciousness, euphoria, and altered perception, among other things. However, these effects are temporary and wear off once the substance clears from the body.

Dependence on psychoactive substances is another common problem that medical coders may encounter. When someone has developed a tolerance to a substance, it requires more of the drug to achieve the same effect as before. Withdrawal symptoms may occur when someone abruptly stops using the substance, both mental and physical. Dependence can manifest with drug-seeking behaviours and can cause functional and structural changes in the brain that can be long-lasting.

When evaluating a patient for the F19.220 diagnosis code, medical professionals must review the patient’s medical history, as well as personal and social behaviour patterns. Symptoms may include cognitive or personality changes, poor judgement, or altered affect and behaviour, so a detailed evaluation is necessary to make a definitive diagnosis.

To diagnose a patient with F19.220, laboratory studies such as blood, urine, hair and other bodily fluid tests may be necessary to determine if the patient has the substance in their system. The results of these tests can provide an objective evaluation of the patient’s level of drug use and can also help medical professionals monitor treatment success.

Effective treatment approaches may include cognitive behavioural therapy, psychotherapy, and group therapy. Some patients may require admission to a residential treatment centre where they can receive intensive support and monitoring to overcome their substance dependency.

In summary, the F19.220 code is used to diagnose patients who experience changes in their mood, consciousness, and behaviour due to psychoactive substance usage. Dependence on such substances can cause profound changes in the brain that may be long-lasting. When diagnosing the condition, a thorough evaluation is necessary, which includes reviewing the patient’s medical history, physical symptoms and appropriate laboratory testing. Effective treatments include various types of therapy and residential treatment centres that can provide the necessary support and monitoring to help patients overcome their substance dependency.