ICD-11 Codes
for 6A00.2 - Disorder of intellectual development, severe

Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970

Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski

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Understanding Severe Disorder of Intellectual Development

The ICD-11 code 6A00.2 represents a severe disorder of intellectual development. This condition originates during the developmental period and is characterised by significantly below-average intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour. These deficits are typically measured at approximately four or more standard deviations below the mean, corresponding to less than the 0.003rd percentile. Diagnosis relies on appropriately normed, individually administered standardized tests or comparable behavioural indicators when formal testing is not feasible. This severe classification signifies profound limitations in cognitive and adaptive capacities.

Synonyms for 6A00.2

Commonly used terms and alternative names for Disorder of intellectual development, severe include severe mental retardation and severe mental handicap. In broader contexts, it falls under the umbrella of Intellectual Developmental Disorder (IDD) or Intellectual Disability (ID), which have replaced the term Mental Retardation (MR). Patient-friendly terms may include severe learning difficulties or severe developmental delay.

Symptoms of Severe Intellectual Developmental Disorder

Individuals diagnosed with 6A00.2 typically exhibit very limited language abilities and a restricted capacity for acquiring academic skills. They may also present with motor impairments. A hallmark of this severe classification is the significant need for daily support within a supervised environment to ensure adequate care. While basic self-care skills may be acquired, this often requires intensive and consistent training. Communication abilities are often profoundly limited, and capacity for academic learning is restricted to very basic concrete skills.

How 6A00.2 is Diagnosed

The diagnosis of a severe disorder of intellectual development (ICD-11 code 6A00.2) is established through a comprehensive assessment. This involves evaluating both intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour, typically using appropriately normed, individually administered standardized tests. When such tests are unavailable or unsuitable, clinical judgement based on comparable behavioural indicators becomes crucial. The diagnostic criteria require intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour to be approximately four or more standard deviations below the mean (less than the 0.003rd percentile). Differentiating severe from profound intellectual developmental disorders relies exclusively on adaptive behaviour differences, as standard intelligence tests cannot reliably distinguish between individuals with functioning below the 0.003rd percentile.

Management of Severe Intellectual Developmental Disorder

Management of severe disorder of intellectual development (6A00.2) focuses on providing essential support and care. Individuals often require daily assistance within a supervised setting to meet their needs. Intensive training can help in acquiring basic self-care skills. Interventions and educational support are vital throughout the lifespan, though the type and intensity of support may vary. Early diagnosis of any underlying etiology can aid in managing related medical problems and optimising care pathways.

Documentation for ICD-11 Code 6A00.2

For billing and clinical documentation purposes, the ICD-11 code for Disorder of intellectual development, severe is 6A00.2. This code is reportable and billable when a formal diagnosis is made by a qualified healthcare professional. Accurate coding requires precise documentation of the assessment findings, including intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviour levels, to support the severe classification. When coding 6A00.2, healthcare providers should ensure all diagnostic criteria are met and documented.