Alcohol-induced pseudo-Cushing's syndrome

This code describes a condition mimicking Cushing's syndrome, characterized by elevated cortisol levels and clinical features such as central obesity, hypertension, and glucose intolerance, but caused by chronic, excessive alcohol consumption rather than a primary adrenal or pituitary disorder. The symptoms resolve with alcohol cessation.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of pseudo-Cushing's syndrome directly attributed to chronic alcohol abuse. Supporting documentation should include evidence of excessive alcohol intake and clinical findings consistent with Cushing's syndrome, with ruling out of true Cushing's etiology.

• Differentiate from true Cushing's syndrome (E24.-) which has different underlying etiologies.
• Always code an accompanying F10.- code to specify the pattern of alcohol use disorder.
• Ensure provider documentation explicitly links the pseudo-Cushing's to alcohol consumption.