Find information on ETOH use disorder, also known as alcohol use disorder, alcoholism, and alcohol dependence. This resource offers guidance for healthcare professionals on clinical documentation, diagnosis codes, and medical coding best practices related to alcohol use disorder for accurate and efficient healthcare billing and patient care. Learn about the criteria for diagnosis, treatment options, and relevant medical terminology for ETOH use disorder.
Also known as
Alcohol related disorders
Covers various alcohol use disorders, including dependence and abuse.
Alcoholic liver disease
Liver conditions caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
Degeneration of nervous system due to alcohol
Neurological damage resulting from chronic alcohol use.
Alcoholic polyneuropathy
Nerve damage in multiple nerves due to alcohol abuse.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Current (active) ETOH use disorder?
Yes
In remission?
No
History of ETOH use disorder?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Problematic alcohol use with impairment or distress. |
| Alcohol withdrawal after reducing or stopping heavy use. |
| Alcohol-induced mental disorder (e.g., psychosis, depression). |
Coding ETOH use disorder without specifying severity (mild, moderate, severe) or if in remission can lead to undercoding and lost revenue.
Missing documentation and coding of co-occurring conditions like withdrawal, liver disease, or mental health disorders impacts reimbursement.
Incorrectly coding ETOH use disorder as the cause of a condition when it's an effect, or vice versa, can lead to inaccurate reporting and denials.
Q: What are the most effective evidence-based interventions for patients with severe ETOH Use Disorder, especially those with comorbid psychiatric conditions?
A: Managing severe ETOH Use Disorder, particularly with comorbid psychiatric conditions, requires a multifaceted approach grounded in evidence-based interventions. Pharmacological treatments like naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram can be effective in reducing cravings and preventing relapse. However, medication should be complemented by psychosocial interventions such as Motivational Interviewing (MI), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and contingency management. For patients with severe AUD and co-occurring disorders, integrated treatment programs that address both substance use and mental health issues simultaneously are crucial for improved outcomes. These programs often incorporate harm reduction strategies, relapse prevention planning, and peer support groups. Explore how integrated treatment models can enhance patient engagement and long-term recovery. Consider implementing standardized assessment tools like the ASAM criteria to guide treatment planning and monitor progress.
Q: How can clinicians differentiate between Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and complicated alcohol withdrawal, and what are the best practices for managing each condition in a primary care setting?
A: Differentiating between Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and complicated alcohol withdrawal is essential for appropriate management in primary care. AUD is a chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use despite negative consequences, while complicated alcohol withdrawal refers to the severe symptoms that can occur when someone with alcohol dependence abruptly stops drinking. These symptoms can include seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (DTs). While screening tools like the AUDIT-C can help identify patients with AUD, clinicians should be vigilant for signs of withdrawal in patients who report recent heavy drinking. Complicated withdrawal requires medical detoxification, often in an inpatient setting, to manage potentially life-threatening complications. AUD, on the other hand, requires a long-term approach incorporating behavioral therapies, mutual support groups, and possibly medication. Learn more about effective screening and brief intervention strategies for AUD in primary care. Consider implementing protocols for safe alcohol detoxification and referral to specialized care when necessary.
Patient presents with signs and symptoms consistent with ETOH Use Disorder (Alcohol Use Disorder, Alcoholism, Alcohol Dependence). Clinical findings support a diagnosis based on DSM-5 criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder, including a problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress. The patient reports (or denies) craving alcohol, continuing to drink despite negative social and occupational consequences, neglecting major role obligations at work, school, or home, and developing tolerance requiring increased amounts of alcohol to achieve desired effects. Withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, anxiety, insomnia, and diaphoresis were (or were not) reported. The patient's alcohol consumption patterns were discussed, including frequency, quantity, and duration of use. Current medical history includes (list relevant comorbidities such as liver disease, pancreatitis, hypertension, or neuropathy). Psychiatric history includes (mention any co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD). The patient's family history is positive (or negative) for alcohol use disorder. Assessment indicates (specify severity mild, moderate, or severe) Alcohol Use Disorder. Differential diagnoses considered included (mention other potential diagnoses considered, e.g., adjustment disorder, other substance use disorders). Plan includes further evaluation for potential complications of chronic alcohol use, including liver function tests, complete blood count, and a comprehensive metabolic panel. Initiation of alcohol detoxification and rehabilitation program is recommended. Patient education provided on the risks associated with alcohol use, treatment options, and available support resources. Referral to addiction specialist and support groups considered. Follow-up scheduled to monitor progress and adjust treatment plan as needed. ICD-10 code F10.xx (specify severity) assigned.