Quick reference
- When to use
- Use F84.0 when the client meets diagnostic criteria for Autism Spectrum Disorder. For ADHD, confirm symptom presence before age 12. For ASD, document early developmental history. Obtain collateral information when possible.
- Duration
- These are chronic, lifelong conditions. ADHD symptoms must have been present before age 12 with current impairment in 2+ settings. ASD symptoms must be present in early development. Reassess annually for treatment planning.
- Session codes
- Pair with CPT 90791 (comprehensive evaluation), 90834/90837 (therapy), 96127 (screening tools like Vanderbilt, ASRS). Neuropsychological testing: 96136/96137. Parent training: 90847.
- Key indicators
- ADHD: inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity across settings • ASD: social communication deficits, restricted/repetitive behaviors • Onset in developmental period • Functional impairment across settings
What F84.0 represents
ASD is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent challenges in social communication and interaction, along with restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. It's a spectrum disorder with wide variation in presentation and severity.
Key diagnostic criteria
- Persistent deficits in social communication/interaction across contexts (all 3):
- Social-emotional reciprocity deficits - Nonverbal communicative behavior deficits - Relationship development/maintenance deficits
- Restricted, repetitive behavior patterns (2+ of 4):
- Stereotyped/repetitive motor movements, speech, or object use - Insistence on sameness, inflexible routines - Highly restricted, fixated interests - Hyper/hyporeactivity to sensory input
Specify severity level (1-3), intellectual/language impairment, and associated conditions.
Documentation essentials
Document specific social communication deficits and restricted behaviors. Note severity level for each domain. Record developmental history.
Differential diagnosis
Distinguish from social communication disorder, intellectual disability, ADHD, selective mutism, and anxiety disorders.
Treatment planning
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech therapy, occupational therapy, social skills training, CBT for co-occurring anxiety/depression.
Insurance & billing
F84.0 is recognized. Specify severity level. Document functional impact and treatment needs.
Updates & changes
DSM-5 merged previous subtypes (Asperger's, PDD-NOS) into single ASD diagnosis.
Documentation pitfalls
Don't forget severity specifiers. Document both domains (social communication AND restricted behaviors).
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.).