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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF81.81

F81.81

Billable

Disorder of written expression

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 F81.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of disorder of written expression.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Disorder of written expression, classified under ICD-10 code F81.81, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant difficulties in writing skills that are not attributable to intellectual disabilities or inadequate educational opportunities. Individuals with this disorder may struggle with spelling, grammar, punctuation, and organizing their thoughts on paper. These challenges can manifest in various ways, such as poor handwriting, difficulty in composing essays, and trouble with written assignments. The disorder often coexists with other learning disabilities, such as dyslexia and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and can impact academic performance and self-esteem. Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes standardized tests to assess writing abilities, as well as a review of the individual's educational history and any co-occurring conditions. Early intervention and tailored educational strategies are crucial for helping individuals manage their symptoms and improve their writing skills.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating from other learning disabilities
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of educational history
  • Potential overlap with other neurodevelopmental disorders
  • Variability in symptom presentation across individuals

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of writing difficulties
  • Failure to include standardized test results
  • Misclassification with other learning disabilities
  • Lack of evidence for educational interventions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed developmental history and educational assessments are necessary.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluating a child with poor writing skills in school settings.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of co-occurring conditions such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorder.

Psychology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive psychological evaluations and reports on cognitive functioning.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Assessing a child for learning disabilities during psychological testing.

Billing Considerations

Need for collaboration with educational professionals for accurate diagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F81.81 When
  • According to the ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, F81
  • 81 should be used when there is a clear diagnosis of disorder of written expression, supported by clinical documentation and educational assessments
  • It is important to rule out other conditions that may affect writing skills

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F81.81 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

96110CPT Code

Developmental screening, with interpretation and report

Clinical Scenario

Used when assessing a child for developmental delays, including writing skills.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of screening results and any follow-up recommendations.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatricians should ensure comprehensive developmental assessments are included.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of learning disabilities, including disorder of written expression, which helps in better tracking and management of these conditions in clinical practice.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of learning disabilities, including disorder of written expression, which helps in better tracking and management of these conditions in clinical practice.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of learning disabilities, including disorder of written expression, which helps in better tracking and management of these conditions in clinical practice.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Psychiatric Association - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
  • •
    National Center for Learning Disabilities

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Psychiatric Association - Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
  • •
    National Center for Learning Disabilities

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary symptoms of disorder of written expression?

Symptoms include difficulties with spelling, grammar, punctuation, and organizing thoughts in writing. Individuals may also exhibit poor handwriting and struggle to complete written assignments.

How is disorder of written expression diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes standardized tests of writing skills, a review of educational history, and consideration of co-occurring conditions.