Other hypochondriacal disorders
ICD-10 F45.29 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other hypochondriacal disorders.
F45.29 refers to other hypochondriacal disorders characterized by excessive preoccupation with having a serious illness despite medical evaluation and reassurance. Patients may exhibit anxiety symptoms, obsessive thoughts about health, and compulsive behaviors related to health concerns. This condition can overlap with anxiety disorders, PTSD, OCD, and specific phobias, complicating diagnosis and treatment. Individuals may frequently seek medical attention, undergo unnecessary tests, or avoid situations they believe could harm their health. Effective management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and sometimes pharmacotherapy. Understanding the interplay between hypochondriacal disorders and other anxiety-related conditions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Detailed patient history, symptom assessment, and treatment plan.
Patients presenting with health anxiety, frequent medical visits, and avoidance behaviors.
Consideration of co-morbid mental health conditions and their impact on treatment.
Thorough documentation of patient complaints, diagnostic tests performed, and referrals made.
Patients expressing concerns about serious illnesses despite negative test results.
Need for clear communication with mental health providers for integrated care.
Used for therapy sessions addressing health anxiety.
Document the focus of therapy on health-related fears and coping strategies.
Psychiatrists should ensure integration of treatment plans with primary care providers.
Hypochondriacal disorder primarily involves excessive worry about having a serious illness, while somatic symptom disorder focuses on the distress caused by physical symptoms, regardless of their medical explanation.
