Anorexia nervosa, unspecified

This code identifies an eating disorder characterized by a persistent restriction of energy intake leading to significantly low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, and a disturbance in the way one's body weight or shape is experienced. It represents the general diagnosis of anorexia nervosa when the specific subtype (restricting type or binge-eating/purging type) is not documented.

Apply this code when the medical record clearly documents a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, but there is no further specification regarding the patient's presentation (e.g., whether they engage in binge-eating/purging behaviors). This code is appropriate when the provider has not specified the subtype, or when the documentation is insufficient to assign a more specific code.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation clearly specifies either "restricting type" or "binge-eating/purging type" of anorexia nervosa; use the more specific codes F50.01 or F50.02, respectively.
• Always query the provider for clarification if the documentation indicates anorexia nervosa but lacks subtype specificity, to allow for more precise coding.
• Consider co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, and code them separately if documented.