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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesF31.6

F31.6

Billable

Bipolar disorder, current episode mixed

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

Code Description

ICD-10 F31.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, current episode mixed.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Bipolar disorder, current episode mixed (F31.6) is characterized by the presence of both manic and depressive symptoms occurring simultaneously or in rapid succession. This mixed episode can manifest as irritability, agitation, and mood swings, alongside feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, and suicidal ideation. Patients may experience racing thoughts, decreased need for sleep, and impulsive behavior typical of mania, while also exhibiting symptoms of depression such as low energy, lack of interest in activities, and difficulty concentrating. The mixed episode can complicate treatment, as mood stabilizers and antipsychotics may be required to manage the fluctuating symptoms effectively. The risk of suicide is notably higher during mixed episodes due to the combination of depressive and manic symptoms, necessitating thorough risk assessments and close monitoring. Accurate diagnosis and coding are crucial for appropriate treatment planning and resource allocation in managing this complex mood disorder.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: High

High Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between mixed episodes and other mood disorders
  • Variability in symptom presentation among patients
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of both manic and depressive symptoms
  • Potential for comorbid conditions that may complicate diagnosis

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptom severity and duration
  • Failure to assess and document suicide risk
  • Misclassification of episode type due to overlapping symptoms
  • Lack of follow-up documentation on treatment response

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Psychiatry

Documentation Requirements

Detailed notes on patient history, symptomatology, and treatment plans are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute mood swings, suicidal ideation, or treatment-resistant symptoms.

Billing Considerations

Psychiatrists must document the specific nature of mixed episodes and any comorbid conditions.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Thorough assessment of mental health history and current symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with undiagnosed bipolar disorder presenting with depressive symptoms or anxiety.

Billing Considerations

Primary care providers should be aware of the signs of mixed episodes to refer patients appropriately.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use F31.6 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, F31
  • 6 should be used when both manic and depressive symptoms are present and documented
  • Coders must ensure that the episode is current and that the symptoms meet the criteria for a mixed episode as defined in the DSM

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use F31.6 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

99214CPT Code

Established patient office visit, level 4

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits for medication management in bipolar disorder.

Documentation Requirements

Document the patient's mental status, treatment response, and any changes in symptoms.

Specialty Considerations

Psychiatrists should ensure thorough documentation to support the complexity of the visit.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of bipolar disorder, including mixed episodes, which enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of bipolar disorder, including mixed episodes, which enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of bipolar disorder, including mixed episodes, which enhances the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Psychiatric Association - DSM-5

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Psychiatric Association - DSM-5

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key symptoms of a mixed episode in bipolar disorder?

Key symptoms include simultaneous manic and depressive features such as irritability, racing thoughts, low energy, and feelings of hopelessness.