Shared psychotic disorder

This diagnosis code signifies a mental health condition where an individual develops a delusional system identical to one held by another person, typically someone with whom they have a close relationship. The shared delusion is usually maintained by the dominant individual and is resistant to challenge. The secondary individual would not have developed the delusion independently.

This code is appropriate when documentation clearly indicates a shared delusional disorder, often referred to as folie à deux. It applies when a patient, previously without a psychotic disorder, adopts the delusions of a primary psychotic individual. Documentation should specify the nature of the shared delusion and the relationship between the individuals involved.

• Differentiate from other psychotic disorders where delusions are not shared or induced by another.
• Ensure documentation specifies the presence of a primary individual with a psychotic disorder and the secondary individual's adoption of those delusions.
• Consider co-occurring codes for the primary individual's psychotic disorder if that individual is also a patient.