ICD-10 Code F43.11 – Post-traumatic stress disorder, acute (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F43.11 – Post-traumatic stress disorder, acute
What it is
F43.11 identifies acute post-traumatic stress disorder, a stress-related mental health condition that can follow exposure to a traumatic event. Use it when the record clearly documents PTSD with an acute presentation.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance of trauma reminders, negative mood changes, and heightened arousal. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use F43.11 when the provider documents acute PTSD as the diagnosis and links it to a qualifying traumatic exposure. It is appropriate for behavioral health visits, follow-up care, or assessments where the acute form is specifically stated. Check documentation if the note only says stress reaction or anxiety.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for general stress, adjustment disorder, or anxiety without documented PTSD. If the record does not specify the acute form, check documentation.
Coding tip
Code only when the clinician explicitly documents acute PTSD and the traumatic trigger is supported in the note.