2025 ICD-10-CM code F10.20
Uncomplicated alcohol dependence.
Medical necessity for treatment of alcohol dependence is established by the presence of clinically significant impairment or distress related to alcohol use, as evidenced by the diagnostic criteria for the condition.
Clinicians diagnose alcohol dependence based on patient history, signs and symptoms, a detailed inquiry into personal and social behavior, and physical examination. Laboratory studies include blood tests for alcohol and thiamine levels. Treatment approaches include behavioral therapy, counseling, group therapy, residential treatment, thiamine supplementation (if needed), and medications.
- Mental, Behavioral and Neurodevelopmental disorders (F01-F99)
- Mental and behavioral disorders due to psychoactive substance use (F10-F19)
In simple words: This means a person has trouble controlling their drinking, even when it causes problems. They spend a lot of time thinking about or getting alcohol, and they may need to drink more to get the same effect. They might also experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop drinking suddenly. This diagnosis doesn't include other mental health issues caused by alcohol use.
Alcohol dependence, uncomplicated. This condition involves a problematic pattern of alcohol use that includes impaired control over drinking, preoccupation with alcohol, and continued use despite adverse consequences. It does not include additional complications like mood disorders or psychoses.
Example 1: A 35-year-old male presents with a history of increasing alcohol consumption over several years. He reports difficulty controlling his intake, often exceeding his intended limit. He experiences mild withdrawal symptoms like sweating and anxiety when he attempts to reduce his drinking. He denies any other significant medical or psychiatric conditions., A 48-year-old female is admitted to the hospital for a fractured wrist sustained during a fall. During her stay, she exhibits signs of alcohol withdrawal, including tremors and agitation. She admits to drinking heavily for several years and expresses a desire to quit but feels unable to do so on her own., A 25-year-old male reports drinking daily for the past year. He has lost interest in his hobbies and has difficulty maintaining relationships due to his drinking. He experiences withdrawal symptoms when he tries to stop. He has no other medical or psychiatric history.
Documentation should include the type of alcohol dependence, current severity, presence or absence of complications, and remission status (if applicable).Detailed personal and social history, including the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption, is crucial. Physical exam findings and results of laboratory tests, such as blood alcohol and thiamine levels, should also be documented.
- Specialties:Addiction Medicine, Psychiatry, Internal Medicine, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Residential Substance Abuse Treatment Facility, Outpatient Hospital, Office, Federally Qualified Health Center