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Diagnosis is a requirement in many instances to obtain medications and services. Professionals diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder based on criteria listed in the American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5). The diagnosis is then translated into the required International Statistical Classification of Diseases and
Related Health Problems, tenth revision (ICD-10) code. This code is needed for reimbursement and reporting.
There are significant changes in the structure and labels within the DSM-5. It appears that the newly defined Autism Spectrum Disorder is much more narrow and specific. For some individuals a diagnosis of Language Disorder or Social (Pragmatic) Language Disorder may more closely describe the characteristics of an individual.
Please consult these publications for specific criteria and pertinent information.
DSM-5: Autism Spectrum Disorder
DSM-5: Social (Pragmatic) Communication Disorder
DSM-5: Language Disorder
DSM-5: Selective Mutism
DSM-5: Social Anxiety Disorder
DSM-5: General Anxiety Disorder
DSM-5: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
DSM-5: ADHD
DSM-5: Reactive Attachment Disorder
ICD-10
DSM-5: General Anxiety Disorder 300.02
Two areas of behavior are usually observed in an individual with this diagnosis. Behaviors may occur in varying degrees and often with unique aspects characteristic of the individual.
Anxiety and Worry About Events and Activities:
- This individual may have intense anxiety and worry anticipating activities in work settings. School performance may also cause excessive anxiety and worry.
- These individuals may struggle to control this anxiety and worry.
- These persons may experience restlessness and often be keyed up and on edge.
- These persons may feel fatigued after minor exertion.
- These persons may often have problems with concentration and losing their train of thought.
- These persons may often experience irritability.
- These persons may often experience tense muscles.
- These persons may often have problems falling or staying asleep. Their sleep may also be restless and unsatisfying.
Differential Diagnosis:
- Other disorders to consider are Anxiety Disorder due to another medical condition, substance/medication-induced Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and adjustment disorders, Depressive, Bipolar, and Psychotic Disorders.
The American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition (DSM-5):
- Please consult this publication for additional information regarding specific criteria for this diagnosis, severity specifications, differential diagnosis, comorbidity, and other pertinent aspects of the disorder.
ICD-10 code: F41.1 Generalized anxiety disorder
