ICD-10 Code F34.81 – Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F34.81 – Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder
What it is
F34.81 identifies disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, a childhood-onset condition marked by persistent irritability and severe temper outbursts. Use it when the diagnosis is documented and the behavior pattern fits this disorder.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include frequent, developmentally inappropriate anger outbursts and a chronically irritable or angry mood between episodes. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use F34.81 when the provider documents disruptive mood dysregulation disorder as the confirmed diagnosis. It may also apply when the note clearly describes recurrent severe outbursts with ongoing irritability and no better documented alternative diagnosis. Check documentation if the record is incomplete.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for isolated tantrums, ordinary oppositional behavior, or mood symptoms without a documented diagnosis. Do not assign it when another disorder better explains the presentation.
Coding tip
Code only when the record supports the specific diagnosis; if the wording is vague, query the provider.