ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF17.210

F17.210

Billable

Nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated

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

Code Description

ICD-10 F17.210 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of nicotine dependence, cigarettes, uncomplicated.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Nicotine dependence is characterized by a strong desire to consume nicotine, often through cigarette smoking, leading to compulsive use despite harmful consequences. This condition is classified as uncomplicated when there are no associated withdrawal symptoms or complications such as respiratory diseases or cardiovascular issues. Patients may experience cravings, irritability, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating when attempting to quit. The diagnosis is typically made based on the criteria outlined in the DSM-5, which includes a pattern of use leading to significant impairment or distress. Treatment options include behavioral therapies, counseling, and pharmacotherapy such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or prescription medications like varenicline or bupropion. Understanding the nuances of nicotine dependence is crucial for effective treatment and coding, as it impacts patient management and healthcare costs.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in patient presentation and severity of dependence
  • Need for accurate documentation of smoking history
  • Differentiation from other substance use disorders
  • Potential for co-occurring mental health conditions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of smoking history
  • Failure to document treatment plans or progress
  • Misclassification of nicotine dependence severity
  • Lack of evidence for counseling or pharmacotherapy

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Detailed smoking history, treatment plans, and follow-up notes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine screenings for tobacco use, counseling sessions, and follow-up visits for smoking cessation.

Billing Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the patient's readiness to quit and any barriers to cessation.

Psychiatry

Documentation Requirements

Assessment of co-occurring mental health disorders and their impact on nicotine dependence.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with anxiety or depression who smoke, requiring integrated treatment approaches.

Billing Considerations

Document the interplay between nicotine dependence and mental health conditions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F17.210 When
  • Follow the ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding substance use disorders
  • Ensure that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation and that it meets the criteria for uncomplicated nicotine dependence

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F17.210 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99406CPT Code

Smoking and tobacco use cessation counseling visit

Clinical Scenario

Used during a visit focused on smoking cessation strategies.

Documentation Requirements

Document the duration of counseling and the patient's smoking history.

Specialty Considerations

Primary care providers should ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's smoking status.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nicotine dependence, improving the ability to track and manage this condition effectively. It has also facilitated better data collection for research and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nicotine dependence, improving the ability to track and manage this condition effectively. It has also facilitated better data collection for research and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of nicotine dependence, improving the ability to track and manage this condition effectively. It has also facilitated better data collection for research and treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Family Physicians - Tobacco Cessation

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Family Physicians - Tobacco Cessation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between nicotine dependence and nicotine abuse?

Nicotine dependence refers to a physical and psychological reliance on nicotine, while nicotine abuse may involve using nicotine in a harmful manner without the same level of dependence.