ICD-10 Code F03.C1 – Unspecified dementia, severe, with behavioral disturbance (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F03.C1 – Unspecified dementia, severe, with behavioral disturbance
What it is
This code identifies severe dementia when the type is not specified and behavioral disturbance is present. Use it when the record documents dementia with significant cognitive decline plus disruptive behaviors, but does not name a more specific cause.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly noted findings include marked memory loss, impaired judgment, disorientation, and behavior changes such as agitation, wandering, aggression, or resistance to care.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider clearly documents unspecified dementia, severity as severe, and a behavioral disturbance. It fits situations where the dementia type is not identified in the chart, but the behavioral symptoms are part of the diagnosis.
Do not infer behavioral disturbance from general confusion alone. Code only when the record supports both the severity and the behavior-related disturbance.
Do not use for
Do not use this code if the dementia type is specified, such as Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia. Also avoid it when behavioral disturbance is not documented; check documentation.
Coding tip
Match all three elements in the note: unspecified dementia, severe status, and behavioral disturbance.