2025 ICD-10-CM code F33.4
Recurrent major depressive disorder, currently in remission.
The medical necessity for continued care and monitoring of a patient with recurrent major depressive disorder in remission is based on the high risk of recurrence.Ongoing treatment, such as medication or therapy, may be necessary to maintain remission and prevent future episodes. The specific interventions and their frequency will depend on the individual patient's history and risk factors.
Clinicians should assess the patient's history of depressive episodes, including their frequency, duration, and severity.The current mental state examination should confirm the absence of depressive symptoms.Ongoing monitoring and management are important to maintain remission and prevent future episodes.
In simple words: This diagnosis means you've had depression more than once, and you're currently not experiencing any symptoms of depression.
This code signifies a patient with a history of multiple major depressive episodes who is currently not experiencing any depressive symptoms.It indicates that the individual has experienced at least two major depressive episodes in the past, separated by a period of at least two months of normal mood and functioning, and that they are currently in a state of remission, meaning that the criteria for a major depressive episode are no longer met.It's important to note that while in remission, the underlying vulnerability to depression remains, and future episodes are possible.
Example 1: A patient with a history of two previous major depressive episodes, the last one occurring six months ago, presents for a follow-up appointment.They report no current depressive symptoms and have returned to their normal level of functioning.The code F33.4 is appropriate., A patient was hospitalized for a major depressive episode one year ago. After discharge, they started psychotherapy and medication and have been symptom-free for the past four months.Now they come for their routine check and are still doing well with no sign of depression.F33.4 is applicable., A patient has experienced four episodes of major depression over the past ten years. Their last episode ended three months ago, and they report feeling well and functioning normally. The clinician assesses and confirms the absence of depressive symptoms and documents F33.4.
Documentation should include a thorough history of the patient's depressive episodes, including onset, duration, severity, and treatment response.The current mental state examination should document the absence of depressive symptoms.Any ongoing treatment or management plans should also be documented.
** It's crucial to distinguish between remission and recovery. Remission refers to the absence of symptoms, while recovery implies a more sustained period of wellness and a lower risk of recurrence.Patients in remission should continue to be monitored for signs of relapse, and ongoing treatment may be necessary to maintain remission and prevent future episodes.The frequency and type of ongoing treatment will depend on individual patient factors and risk.
- Specialties:Psychiatry, Psychology, Primary Care
- Place of Service:Outpatient Hospital, Office, Inpatient Hospital, Community Mental Health Center, Psychiatric Facility-Partial Hospitalization, Telehealth Provided in Patient’s Home, Telehealth Provided Other than in Patient’s Home