Alcohol abuse with withdrawal, uncomplicated

This code signifies a pattern of problematic alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, specifically when the patient is experiencing uncomplicated alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Uncomplicated withdrawal refers to symptoms such as tremors, anxiety, nausea, or insomnia, without the presence of seizures, delirium tremens, or perceptual disturbances.

Apply this code when a patient presents with a documented history of alcohol abuse and is currently exhibiting mild to moderate, non-life-threatening alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Documentation should clearly state both the abuse pattern and the presence of withdrawal symptoms that do not meet criteria for complicated withdrawal.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "uncomplicated withdrawal" or lists symptoms that do not indicate delirium tremens or seizures.
• Do not use this code if the patient is experiencing alcohol dependence with withdrawal; refer to codes in the F10.2- series.
• Sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when the alcohol abuse with uncomplicated withdrawal is the reason for the encounter.