Fatigue and Malaise ICD-10-CM codes

R53.83 (other fatigue) is the code for fatigue, tiredness, and lethargy documented without a cause. R53.82 is chronic fatigue, unspecified. Myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome is no longer in R53.82; it moved to G93.32 and should be used whenever the provider documents ME/CFS or systemic exertion intolerance disease. R53.81 (other malaise) covers debility, general physical deterioration, and malaise NOS. R53.0 is neoplastic-related fatigue, with the malignancy coded first.

R53.1 is generalized weakness. It is not used for muscle weakness (M62.81) or for weakness on one side, which is coded to the neurological cause. R53.2 (functional quadriplegia) requires explicit provider documentation of complete immobility from severe disability; it is not a synonym for weakness or deconditioning. Age-related physical debility in an older adult is R54.

Fatigue is a symptom and is not reported when it is integral to an established diagnosis such as anemia, hypothyroidism, heart failure, or depression. Report R53.83 when fatigue is the reason for the visit and no cause has been established.