Factitious disorder imposed on self, with combined psychological and physical signs and symptoms
ICD-10 F68.13 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of factitious disorder imposed on self, with combined psychological and physical signs and symptoms.
Factitious disorder imposed on self is a mental health condition where an individual deliberately produces or feigns physical or psychological symptoms to assume the sick role. This disorder is characterized by a combination of psychological and physical signs and symptoms, which can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Patients may present with a variety of symptoms that mimic real medical conditions, often leading to unnecessary medical interventions. The motivation behind this behavior is typically to gain attention, sympathy, or reassurance from healthcare providers and others. Unlike malingering, where the individual has a clear external incentive (such as financial gain), those with factitious disorder are driven by an intrinsic need to be seen as ill or injured. This disorder can be associated with personality disorders, particularly those involving maladaptive behaviors and impulse control issues. Individuals may struggle with identity issues, including gender identity, which can further complicate their clinical presentation. Accurate diagnosis requires careful assessment and often involves ruling out other medical and psychological conditions.
Detailed psychological assessments, history of symptoms, and treatment plans.
Patients presenting with unexplained medical symptoms, frequent hospital visits, or inconsistent medical histories.
Consideration of co-occurring mental health disorders and the need for a multidisciplinary approach.
Thorough documentation of physical examinations, lab results, and consultations with mental health professionals.
Patients with recurrent symptoms that do not align with medical diagnoses or treatment responses.
Collaboration with psychiatry for comprehensive care and accurate diagnosis.
Used when evaluating a patient suspected of having factitious disorder.
Comprehensive history and mental status examination.
Psychiatric evaluation should include assessment of motivations and previous medical history.
Factitious disorder involves intentionally producing symptoms for psychological reasons, while malingering is motivated by external incentives, such as financial gain.
