ICD-10 Code F40.23 – Blood, injection, injury type phobia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F40.23 – Blood, injection, injury type phobia
What it is
F40.23 identifies a specific phobia centered on blood, injections, or injury-related stimuli. It describes an excessive fear response that is out of proportion to the actual situation.
Clinical signs
Patients may show intense anxiety, avoidance, or fainting when exposed to needles, blood, or injury cues. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly documents a blood, injection, or injury type phobia as the reason for evaluation or ongoing care. It may apply when the fear interferes with procedures, screening, or routine medical visits. Check documentation if the phobic trigger is not specified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for general anxiety, needle dislike without a documented phobia, or vasovagal syncope alone. Check documentation when the chart only notes fear without a formal diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code only when the provider documents the specific phobia type; otherwise, query for clarification.