F10.221

HCC Category Mapping

What This Code Means

A person who is dependent on alcohol and is experiencing delirium (severe confusion and hallucinations) while intoxicated.

Coding Tips

• •Delirium is a serious acute mental state requiring documentation of both the alcohol dependence and the delirium presentation
• •Ensure documentation clearly distinguishes delirium from other alcohol-induced conditions like withdrawal or dementia

Clinical Significance

This code captures alcohol dependence with intoxication delirium, documenting an acute episode of alcohol intoxication in a patient with an established pattern of alcohol dependence. Intoxication delirium represents a more severe presentation with altered consciousness and cognitive disturbance requiring urgent medical attention. Accurate coding of the use level (dependence) and intoxication status is critical for tracking substance use severity and ensuring appropriate risk adjustment.

Documentation Requirements

• ✓Documentation of alcohol dependence with at least three of: tolerance, withdrawal, use in larger amounts/longer periods than intended, persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down, significant time spent obtaining/using/recovering, important activities given up, continued use despite knowledge of physical/psychological problems
• ✓Documentation of acute intoxication at the time of the encounter, with clinical findings (e.g., blood alcohol level, slurred speech, impaired coordination)
• ✓Documentation of delirium symptoms: acute onset of confusion, altered consciousness, disorientation, agitation, or perceptual disturbances during intoxication
• ✓Assessment and plan addressing alcohol use disorder with treatment recommendations (counseling, medication-assisted treatment, referral, etc.)

Commonly Confused Codes