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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR48

R48

Dyslexia and other symbolic dysfunctions, not elsewhere classified

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 R48 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of dyslexia and other symbolic dysfunctions, not elsewhere classified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Dyslexia is a specific learning disability that affects reading and language processing. It is characterized by difficulties with accurate and/or fluent word recognition and by poor spelling and decoding abilities. These difficulties typically result from a deficit in the phonological component of language and are often unexpected in relation to other cognitive abilities. Symptoms may include difficulty in reading comprehension, slow reading speed, and challenges in writing and spelling. Other symbolic dysfunctions may encompass a range of issues related to the processing of symbols, such as numbers and letters, which can manifest in various ways, including difficulties in mathematics (dyscalculia) or in understanding written language. The clinical presentation can vary widely, and individuals may exhibit a combination of symptoms that impact their academic performance and daily functioning. Diagnosis is often made through a combination of standardized testing, clinical assessments, and observations of the individual's performance in academic settings.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in symptoms and severity among patients
  • Overlap with other learning disabilities
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of assessments
  • Potential for misdiagnosis with other cognitive disorders

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of diagnostic criteria
  • Failure to specify the type of symbolic dysfunction
  • Misalignment between clinical findings and coded diagnosis
  • Lack of interdisciplinary notes supporting the diagnosis

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of learning difficulties, results from standardized tests, and any co-existing conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with academic struggles, particularly in reading and writing, often referred for evaluation.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of comorbid conditions such as ADHD or anxiety disorders that may impact learning.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute care notes should include any immediate concerns regarding cognitive function or learning abilities.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with acute stress or anxiety related to academic performance.

Billing Considerations

Emergency settings may require quick assessments, and documentation should reflect any relevant history of learning disabilities.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R48 When
  • Follow the ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for accurate coding of dyslexia and related symbolic dysfunctions
  • Ensure that documentation supports the diagnosis and that all relevant assessments are included

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R48 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related Codes

Child Codes

6 codes
R48.0
Dyslexia and alexia
R48.1
Agnosia
R48.2
Apraxia
R48.3
Visual agnosia
R48.8
Other symbolic dysfunctions
R48.9
Unspecified symbolic dysfunctions

Related CPT Codes

96110CPT Code

Developmental screening, with interpretation and report, per standardized instrument

Clinical Scenario

Used when assessing children for learning disabilities including dyslexia.

Documentation Requirements

Documentation must include the specific screening tool used and results.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatric specialists should ensure that developmental assessments are comprehensive.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of dyslexia and related disorders, improving the ability to capture the nuances of these conditions and their impact on patient care.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of dyslexia and related disorders, improving the ability to capture the nuances of these conditions and their impact on patient care.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of dyslexia and related disorders, improving the ability to capture the nuances of these conditions and their impact on patient care.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Psychiatric Association - Learning Disorders

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Psychiatric Association - Learning Disorders

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between dyslexia and other learning disabilities?

Dyslexia specifically refers to difficulties with reading and language processing, while other learning disabilities may affect different areas such as mathematics (dyscalculia) or writing (dysgraphia).