2025 ICD-10-CM code F50.2
(Valid (as of 01 December 2024)) Effective Date: N/A Mental, Behavioral and Neurodevelopmental disorders - F50-F59 V Feed
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder marked by a cycle of binge eating followed by engaging in compensatory behaviors (purging) to prevent weight gain. These behaviors include self-induced vomiting, the use of laxatives or diuretics, excessive exercise, and fasting.
Medical necessity for the treatment of bulimia nervosa is established by the presence of the diagnostic criteria as outlined in the DSM-5 or ICD-10.Medical necessity is also based on the severity of the eating disorder, the presence of medical or psychological complications, and the need for specialized care or interventions.
Clinicians diagnose bulimia nervosa based on patient history, signs and symptoms, a detailed inquiry into eating patterns and compensatory behaviors, and a physical examination.Assessment should include evaluation of medical complications and co-occurring mental health disorders.Treatment may involve a multidisciplinary approach including psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, medical management, and in some cases, medication.
In simple words: Bulimia is an eating disorder where people eat a lot of food in a short time and then try to prevent weight gain by throwing up, using laxatives, or exercising too much.They worry a lot about their weight and body shape.
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by a persistent preoccupation with eating and an irresistible craving for food, leading to episodes of overeating (binging) large amounts of food in short periods.Individuals with bulimia then engage in compensatory behaviors (purging) to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or other medications, excessive exercise, and/or fasting.They often experience a distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight. Bulimia can have significant physical consequences, including electrolyte imbalances, dental problems, and gastrointestinal issues.
Example 1: A 20-year-old female presents with a history of binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting several times a week.She expresses significant distress about her body shape and weight., A 25-year-old male reports episodes of overeating followed by excessive exercise. He uses laxatives and restricts his food intake between binges.He exhibits signs of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance., A 16-year-old individual reports a distorted body image and fear of gaining weight. They engage in binge eating episodes followed by using diuretics. They have experienced significant weight fluctuations.
Documentation should include frequency and severity of binge-purge episodes, methods used to compensate for binging, body weight history, presence of distorted body image, and any physical or psychological symptoms or complications.Medical records should also reflect relevant lab results, mental health assessments, and treatment plans.
- Payment Status: Active (as of 01 December 2024)
- Specialties:Psychiatry, Primary Care, Adolescent Medicine, Eating Disorder Specialists
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Office, Partial Hospitalization Program, Residential Treatment Center