Quick reference
- When to use
- Use F90.0 when the client meets diagnostic criteria for ADHD, Predominantly Inattentive Presentation. 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 F90.0 represents
The predominantly inattentive presentation of ADHD, sometimes called ADD. Characterized by difficulty sustaining attention, being easily distracted, disorganization, and forgetfulness, without significant hyperactivity-impulsivity.
Key diagnostic criteria
- 6+ inattention symptoms (5+ for age 17+) for 6+ months:
- Careless mistakes, difficulty sustaining attention, doesn't seem to listen, fails to follow through, difficulty organizing, avoids sustained mental effort, loses things, easily distracted, forgetful
- Fewer than 6 hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms
- Symptoms present before age 12
- Symptoms in 2+ settings
- Clear interference with functioning
- Not better explained by another disorder
Documentation essentials
Document specific inattentive symptoms, onset before age 12, multiple settings affected, and functional impact. Use rating scales (Conners, Vanderbilt).
Differential diagnosis
Distinguish from anxiety (worry-related inattention), depression, learning disabilities, sleep disorders, and trauma.
Treatment planning
Stimulant or non-stimulant medication, CBT for executive functioning, organizational skills training, behavioral interventions.
Insurance & billing
Well-accepted. Document symptom count, settings affected, and functional impairment.
Updates & changes
DSM-5 raised the age of onset criterion to 12 (from 7). Adult criteria require 5+ symptoms.
Documentation pitfalls
Don't diagnose based on inattention alone – must rule out other causes. Document childhood onset.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed., text rev.).