Major depressive disorder, recurrent, unspecified
ICD-10 F33.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of major depressive disorder, recurrent, unspecified.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities. The recurrent form of MDD indicates that the individual has experienced multiple episodes of depression, with symptoms lasting for at least two weeks during each episode. The unspecified designation is used when the clinician does not specify the severity or specific features of the depressive episodes. Symptoms may include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. The diagnosis is made based on clinical assessment, including a thorough history and mental status examination. Treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy, including the use of mood stabilizers and antidepressants. Given the recurrent nature of the disorder, ongoing management and monitoring for suicide risk are critical components of care.
Detailed mental status examination, treatment history, and risk assessments.
Initial diagnosis of recurrent depression, treatment planning, and medication management.
Ensure thorough documentation of all episodes and treatment responses to support the diagnosis.
Routine screening for depression, documentation of patient-reported symptoms, and follow-up care notes.
Screening for depression during annual wellness visits, managing medication refills, and coordinating care with mental health specialists.
Primary care providers should be vigilant about assessing suicide risk and referring to specialists when necessary.
Used during therapy sessions for patients diagnosed with F33.9.
Document the duration of the session and the therapeutic interventions used.
Psychiatrists and licensed therapists should ensure that the treatment plan aligns with the diagnosis.
F33.9 is specifically for recurrent major depressive disorder without specified severity or features, while other codes may indicate single episodes or varying severity levels.
