Bipolar disorder, current episode depressed, mild

This code signifies a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder where the patient is currently experiencing a mild depressive episode. This means the individual has a history of at least one manic or mixed episode, and their current symptoms meet the criteria for a mild depressive episode, characterized by a few depressive symptoms that cause only minor functional impairment.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of bipolar I disorder and the patient's current presentation is a mild depressive episode. This code is appropriate when the clinician explicitly states "bipolar I disorder, current episode depressed, mild" or provides detailed symptomology consistent with a mild depressive episode in a patient with a known history of mania.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "bipolar I disorder" and not bipolar II or cyclothymic disorder.
• Verify the severity of the depressive episode is explicitly documented as "mild."
• Always sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.