ICD-10 Code F81.89 – Other developmental disorders of scholastic skills (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F81.89 – Other developmental disorders of scholastic skills
What it is
Use this code for developmental learning problems that affect school performance but do not fit a more specific scholastic skill disorder. It covers documented academic skill deficits that are not otherwise classified.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Commonly, you may see persistent difficulty with reading, writing, or math skills that is not explained by intellectual disability, sensory loss, or inadequate instruction.
When to use this code
Use F81.89 when the provider documents an other or unspecified developmental disorder of scholastic skills and the record does not support a more specific F81 code. It is appropriate when school-related learning impairment is present and the note clearly links it to a developmental disorder. Check documentation if the diagnosis is broad or incomplete.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for isolated academic problems due to poor attendance, language barriers, or environmental factors. Also avoid it when the chart supports a more specific learning disorder code.
Coding tip
Code to the highest documented specificity and confirm the provider has identified a developmental scholastic disorder, not a general school performance concern.