ICD-10 Code F40.231 – Fear of injections and transfusions (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F40.231 – Fear of injections and transfusions
What it is
F40.231 identifies a specific phobia involving fear of injections and transfusions. Use it when the documented concern is the phobic reaction itself, not a general anxiety disorder.
Clinical signs
Patients may show marked fear, avoidance, or distress when faced with needles, injections, blood draws, or transfusions. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states fear of injections or transfusions and the clinician is documenting it as the reason for evaluation or care planning. It may apply when the phobia affects acceptance of needed procedures or requires special preparation. Check documentation if the note only mentions anxiety without a specific phobia.
Do not use for
Do not use it for routine dislike of needles, vasovagal reactions, or generalized anxiety without a documented phobia. Check documentation when the chart is unclear.
Coding tip
Code the specific phobia only when the provider documents fear of injections or transfusions explicitly.