ICD-10 Code F98.1 – Encopresis not due to a substance or known physiological condition (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F98.1 – Encopresis not due to a substance or known physiological condition
What it is
F98.1 identifies encopresis, meaning repeated stool soiling or passage of stool in inappropriate places, when it is not caused by a substance or a known physiological disorder. You use it for a behavioral or functional diagnosis after other causes are excluded.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include involuntary or intentional fecal soiling, often in a child who is toilet trained. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation, and confirm that constipation, neurologic disease, or another medical cause is not driving the problem.
When to use this code
Use F98.1 when the record documents encopresis and the clinician states it is not due to medication, substance use, or a known physiological condition. It fits outpatient, behavioral, or pediatric notes when the diagnosis is established and alternate causes have been considered. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for fecal incontinence from neurologic disease, gastrointestinal disease, medication effects, or other identified medical conditions. If the chart describes constipation or overflow soiling as the cause, code the documented condition instead.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider documents encopresis as the diagnosis and that a physiological or substance-related cause has been ruled out.