ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for nervous debility
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Debility (chronic) (general) (nervous) › nervous”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding nervous debility
The ICD-10-CM code for nervous debility is R53.81 (Other malaise).
Within R53.8, choose R53.81 (Other malaise) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: chronic fatigue, unspecified (R53.82) and other fatigue (R53.83).
Don't report R53.81 together with the conditions in its Excludes1 note: age-related physical debility (R54).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
Don't confuse with (Excludes1 for R53.81)
- age-related physical debility (R54)
Common questions about nervous debility ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for nervous debility?
- R53.81 — Other malaise.
Is R53.81 billable?
- Yes. R53.81 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can R53.81 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict R53.81 as a principal diagnosis.
Is R53.81 a CC or MCC?
- No. R53.81 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.