ICD-10: F10.921

ICD-10 code F10.921 refers to "Alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium." This classification falls under the broader category of alcohol-related disorders, which are characterized by the harmful effects of alcohol consumption on an individual's health and behavior.

Clinical Description

Definition

Intoxication delirium is a severe condition that occurs when an individual experiences confusion, disorientation, and cognitive impairment due to the acute effects of alcohol intoxication. This state can lead to significant disturbances in consciousness and perception, often requiring immediate medical attention.

Symptoms

Patients with intoxication delirium may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:
- Altered mental status: Confusion, disorientation, and impaired judgment.
- Cognitive disturbances: Difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, and disorganized thinking.
- Behavioral changes: Agitation, aggression, or withdrawal from social interactions.
- Physical signs: Slurred speech, unsteady gait, and potential respiratory depression.

Diagnostic Criteria

To diagnose F10.921, clinicians typically assess the following:
- History of alcohol use: Evidence of recent alcohol consumption leading to the current state.
- Clinical evaluation: Observation of symptoms consistent with intoxication delirium.
- Exclusion of other causes: Ruling out other medical or psychiatric conditions that could explain the symptoms.

Clinical Implications

Treatment

Management of intoxication delirium primarily focuses on:
- Supportive care: Ensuring the patient's safety and comfort, monitoring vital signs, and providing a calm environment.
- Hydration: Administering fluids to counteract dehydration often associated with alcohol use.
- Medications: In some cases, benzodiazepines may be used to manage agitation or seizures.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals diagnosed with F10.921 can vary based on several factors, including the severity of the delirium, the presence of co-occurring medical conditions, and the individual's overall health. With appropriate treatment, many patients can recover fully, although some may experience lingering cognitive effects.

Coding and Billing Considerations

Usage

F10.921 is utilized in clinical settings to document cases where patients present with alcohol use disorder accompanied by intoxication delirium. This code is essential for accurate billing and coding in healthcare systems, ensuring that providers receive appropriate reimbursement for the care provided.

Related Codes

Other relevant ICD-10 codes in the F10 category include:
- F10.920: Alcohol use, unspecified without intoxication delirium.
- F10.921: Alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium, which specifically indicates the presence of delirium.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code F10.921 is crucial for identifying and managing cases of alcohol use disorder complicated by intoxication delirium. Understanding the clinical features, treatment options, and implications of this diagnosis is essential for healthcare providers to deliver effective care and support to affected individuals. Proper coding not only aids in clinical management but also ensures accurate billing and resource allocation within healthcare systems.

The ICD-10 code F10.921 refers to "Alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium." This diagnosis encompasses a range of clinical presentations, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with acute alcohol intoxication leading to delirium. Below is a detailed overview of these aspects.

Clinical Presentation

Definition of Intoxication Delirium

Intoxication delirium is a severe form of acute confusion and altered mental status that occurs in the context of significant alcohol consumption. It is characterized by a disturbance in attention, awareness, and cognition, often accompanied by perceptual disturbances and mood changes. This condition can arise after a single episode of heavy drinking or prolonged alcohol use.

Symptoms

Patients with alcohol intoxication delirium may exhibit a variety of symptoms, including:

• Altered Mental Status: Confusion, disorientation, and impaired judgment are common. Patients may not recognize familiar people or places.
• Cognitive Impairment: Difficulty concentrating, memory disturbances, and disorganized thinking can occur.
• Perceptual Disturbances: Hallucinations (visual or auditory) and illusions may be present, leading to a distorted perception of reality.
• Mood Changes: Patients may experience agitation, anxiety, or mood swings, which can escalate to aggressive behavior.
• Physical Symptoms: These can include tremors, sweating, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), and hypertension. In severe cases, seizures may occur.

Signs

Healthcare providers may observe the following signs during a clinical assessment:

• Disorientation: Patients may be unable to identify the time, place, or situation accurately.
• Incoherent Speech: Speech may be slurred or nonsensical, reflecting cognitive impairment.
• Restlessness or Agitation: Patients may appear restless or unable to sit still, often exhibiting signs of anxiety.
• Physical Examination Findings: Vital signs may show elevated heart rate and blood pressure, and physical examination may reveal signs of alcohol withdrawal, such as tremors.

Patient Characteristics

Demographics

• Age: Alcohol use disorders, including intoxication delirium, are more prevalent among younger adults, particularly those aged 18-34, but can occur in any age group.
• Gender: Males are more frequently affected than females, although the gap is narrowing as alcohol consumption patterns change.

Risk Factors

• History of Alcohol Use: Patients often have a history of heavy or binge drinking, which increases the risk of developing intoxication delirium.
• Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders: Individuals with pre-existing mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, may be at higher risk.
• Social and Environmental Factors: Factors such as social isolation, stress, and lack of support systems can contribute to the likelihood of heavy drinking and subsequent delirium.

Comorbid Conditions

Patients may also present with comorbid conditions, including:
- Substance Use Disorders: Co-occurring use of other substances can complicate the clinical picture.
- Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses, particularly liver disease, can exacerbate the effects of alcohol and increase the risk of delirium.

Conclusion

The clinical presentation of F10.921: Alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium, is characterized by a combination of cognitive, perceptual, and physical symptoms that can significantly impair a patient's functioning. Recognizing these signs and symptoms is crucial for timely intervention and management. Treatment typically involves supportive care, monitoring, and addressing any underlying medical or psychiatric conditions. Early recognition and intervention can improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications associated with alcohol intoxication delirium.

ICD-10 code F10.921 refers to "Alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium." This diagnosis is part of the broader category of alcohol-related disorders, which encompasses various conditions related to alcohol consumption and its effects on health. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this specific code.

Alternative Names

1. Alcohol Intoxication Delirium: This term emphasizes the delirium aspect associated with acute alcohol intoxication.
2. Acute Alcohol Delirium: A term that highlights the sudden onset of delirium due to alcohol use.
3. Alcohol-Induced Delirium: This name indicates that the delirium is a direct result of alcohol consumption.
4. Unspecified Alcohol Use Disorder with Delirium: A broader term that may be used in clinical settings to describe the condition without specifying the type of alcohol use disorder.

Related Terms

1. Substance Use Disorder: A general term that includes various disorders related to the misuse of substances, including alcohol.
2. Delirium Due to Alcohol: A clinical term that describes the state of confusion and altered consciousness resulting from alcohol use.
3. Alcohol Withdrawal Delirium: While distinct, this term is related as it describes delirium that occurs during withdrawal from alcohol, which can also be severe.
4. Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): A broader classification that includes various levels of alcohol misuse, which may lead to conditions like F10.921.
5. Intoxication Syndrome: A term that can refer to the symptoms experienced during intoxication, including delirium.

Clinical Context

Understanding these alternative names and related terms is crucial for healthcare professionals when diagnosing and coding alcohol-related conditions. The use of precise terminology helps in effective communication among medical staff and ensures accurate documentation for treatment and billing purposes.

In summary, F10.921 is associated with various terms that reflect the complexity of alcohol-related disorders, particularly those involving acute intoxication and its severe effects, such as delirium. These terms are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning in clinical practice.

The ICD-10 code F10.921 refers to "Alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium." This diagnosis is part of the broader category of alcohol-related disorders, which encompasses various conditions related to alcohol consumption. Understanding the criteria for diagnosing this specific condition involves examining both the general diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorders and the specific features of intoxication delirium.

Diagnostic Criteria for Alcohol Use Disorders

The diagnosis of alcohol use disorders, including F10.921, typically follows the criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The DSM-5 specifies that a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder can be made when an individual meets at least two of the following criteria within a 12-month period:

1. Alcohol is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended.
2. There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control alcohol use.
3. A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain alcohol, use alcohol, or recover from its effects.
4. Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use alcohol.
5. Recurrent alcohol use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, or home.
6. Continued alcohol use despite having persistent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of alcohol.
7. Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of alcohol use.
8. Recurrent alcohol use in situations where it is physically hazardous.
9. Alcohol use is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem likely to have been caused or exacerbated by alcohol.
10. Tolerance, as defined by either a need for markedly increased amounts of alcohol to achieve intoxication or desired effect, or a markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same amount of alcohol.
11. Withdrawal, as manifested by either the characteristic withdrawal syndrome for alcohol or alcohol (or a closely related substance) is taken to relieve or avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Specific Criteria for Intoxication Delirium

Intoxication delirium, specifically, is characterized by a severe disturbance in attention and awareness, along with cognitive impairment, which can occur during or shortly after the use of alcohol. The following criteria are typically considered for diagnosing intoxication delirium:

1. The presence of a significant disturbance in attention (e.g., reduced ability to direct, focus, sustain, or shift attention) and awareness (e.g., reduced orientation to the environment).
2. The disturbance develops over a short period (usually hours to a few days) and represents a change from baseline attention and awareness.
3. The disturbance is not better explained by another neurocognitive disorder and is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance (other than alcohol).
4. Evidence of recent alcohol use, which may include a history of heavy drinking or acute intoxication.

Conclusion

In summary, the diagnosis of F10.921, "Alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium," requires a comprehensive assessment that includes both the general criteria for alcohol use disorders and the specific symptoms associated with intoxication delirium. Clinicians must evaluate the individual's history of alcohol use, the presence of cognitive disturbances, and the impact of these symptoms on daily functioning. Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment and management of the disorder, ensuring that individuals receive the appropriate care for their condition.

When addressing the treatment of ICD-10 code F10.921, which refers to alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium, it is essential to understand both the clinical implications of this diagnosis and the standard treatment approaches. This condition indicates a severe reaction to alcohol intoxication, characterized by confusion, altered consciousness, and other cognitive impairments, necessitating immediate and comprehensive medical intervention.

Understanding Alcohol Use and Intoxication Delirium

Alcohol intoxication delirium is a serious condition that can occur in individuals with significant alcohol consumption. It is marked by symptoms such as disorientation, hallucinations, and severe agitation, which can lead to dangerous situations for the individual and those around them. The management of this condition typically requires a multi-faceted approach, focusing on both immediate stabilization and long-term recovery strategies.

Standard Treatment Approaches

1. Immediate Medical Intervention

• Emergency Care: Patients presenting with intoxication delirium often require emergency medical attention. This may involve hospitalization, especially if the individual is at risk of self-harm or has severe symptoms.
• Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of vital signs is crucial. Healthcare providers will assess the patient's level of consciousness, respiratory function, and cardiovascular stability.
• Sedation: In cases of severe agitation or psychosis, sedative medications such as benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam) may be administered to calm the patient and prevent harm[1].

2. Supportive Care

• Hydration and Nutrition: Patients may be dehydrated or malnourished due to alcohol use. Intravenous fluids and electrolyte replacement are often necessary to restore balance and support recovery[2].
• Nutritional Support: Thiamine (Vitamin B1) supplementation is critical to prevent Wernicke's encephalopathy, a serious neurological condition associated with alcohol use[3].

3. Psychiatric Evaluation and Management

• Assessment for Co-occurring Disorders: A thorough psychiatric evaluation is essential to identify any underlying mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, which may require concurrent treatment[4].
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Once stabilized, patients may benefit from CBT, which helps address the cognitive distortions associated with alcohol use and develop coping strategies[5].

4. Long-term Treatment Strategies

• Substance Use Disorder Treatment: Following stabilization, a comprehensive treatment plan for alcohol use disorder (AUD) should be implemented. This may include:
• Counseling and Therapy: Individual or group therapy sessions can provide support and strategies for maintaining sobriety.

• Medications: Pharmacotherapy options such as naltrexone, acamprosate, or disulfiram may be prescribed to help manage cravings and reduce the risk of relapse[6].

• Support Groups: Encouraging participation in support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) can provide ongoing support and accountability for individuals in recovery[7].

5. Follow-Up Care

• Regular Monitoring: Continuous follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor recovery progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.
• Relapse Prevention: Education on recognizing triggers and developing a relapse prevention plan is vital for long-term success in recovery[8].

Conclusion

The treatment of ICD-10 code F10.921—alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium—requires a comprehensive and immediate approach to ensure patient safety and promote recovery. By integrating medical stabilization, supportive care, psychiatric evaluation, and long-term treatment strategies, healthcare providers can effectively address both the acute symptoms and the underlying issues related to alcohol use disorder. Ongoing support and follow-up care are crucial for sustaining recovery and preventing relapse.

For individuals experiencing this condition, seeking immediate medical attention and engaging in a structured treatment program can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.

References

1. Controlled Substance Monitoring and Drugs of Abuse Testing.
2. Specifying and Pilot Testing Quality Measures for the ...
3. ICD-10 Coding For Substance Use Disorders.
4. DSM-5 Diagnostic Codes.
5. Billing and Coding: Psychiatric Codes (A57130).
6. 2025 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F10.921.
7. Alcohol use, unspecified with intoxication delirium (F10.921).
8. 2025 ICD-10-CM Codes F10*: Alcohol related disorders.