Avoidant personality disorder

This code signifies a pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts. Individuals with this disorder often avoid social interaction due to fear of rejection or criticism, despite desiring social connection.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of avoidant personality disorder based on established diagnostic criteria (e.g., DSM-5). This typically involves a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation outlining the persistent pattern of avoidance, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity.

• Differentiate from Social Anxiety Disorder (F40.10) where the fear is primarily performance-related, not a pervasive personality pattern.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "avoidant personality disorder" rather than just "avoidant traits" or "social avoidance."
• Consider sequencing with other mental health diagnoses if present, following official ICD-10-CM guidelines for multiple diagnoses.