ICD-10-CM code F43.0 describes acute stress reaction. Transient, severe anxiety in direct response to exceptional stress, resolving within days. It is a billable, specific code valid for claim submission. It is grouped under the “Anxiety, Trauma & Stress-Related Disorders” section of the mental, behavioral, and neurodevelopmental disorders chapter.
When to use F43.0
Use this group for phobias, panic, generalized anxiety, OCD, PTSD, acute and adjustment disorders, and dissociative and somatic symptom disorders. Match the code to the specific syndrome and document the precipitating trigger where relevant. For F43.0 specifically, transient, severe anxiety in direct response to exceptional stress, resolving within days.
Documentation & billing
Document the specific syndrome, severity or frequency, and for trauma- or stress-related codes the precipitating event. For somatic symptom and pain disorders, note the psychological factors involved.
Common pitfalls
- Using unspecified anxiety (F41.9) when criteria for a specific disorder are met.
- Coding PTSD under a generic anxiety or stress code.
- Failing to specify the phobia type (animal, situational, or blood-injection-injury).
Common search terms for F43.0
Clinicians often look up F43.0 using plain-language terms. This code maps to:
Frequently asked questions
What is ICD-10-CM code F43.0?
Acute stress reaction. Transient, severe anxiety in direct response to exceptional stress, resolving within days.
Is F43.0 a billable ICD-10-CM code?
Yes. F43.0 (Acute stress reaction) is a billable, specific ICD-10-CM code that can be reported on a claim. Confirm the current official descriptor against the CDC code set and your payer’s policies before submitting.
What should I document to support F43.0?
Document the specific syndrome, severity or frequency, and for trauma- or stress-related codes the precipitating event. For somatic symptom and pain disorders, note the psychological factors involved.