Name of the Condition

• Mood disorder due to known physiological condition, unspecified
• Also referred to as a secondary mood disorder.

Summary

• This condition involves mood disturbances that are directly caused by a specific physiological condition. Unlike primary mood disorders, which have no identifiable physical cause, these disturbances are linked to another medical issue.

Causes

• The disorder is caused by underlying physiological changes or conditions, such as brain injury, endocrine abnormalities, or chronic illnesses like lupus or multiple sclerosis. These conditions can disrupt normal brain function, leading to mood changes.

Risk Factors

• Having a chronic medical condition.
• Experiences of brain injury or central nervous system infections.
• Having a history of substance abuse or dependency.

Symptoms

• Symptoms may include feelings of depression or dysphoria, fluctuating moods, irritability, and anxiety. These symptoms can vary depending on the underlying medical condition.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive clinical evaluation, including a review of medical history, physical examination, and possibly neuroimaging or laboratory tests to confirm the presence of an underlying physiological condition affecting mood.

Treatment Options

• Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying physiological condition, which may involve medications, surgery, or specific therapies. Alongside this, psychiatric medications such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers may also be prescribed to manage mood symptoms.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The prognosis depends on the management of the underlying physiological condition. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor the mood disorder and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

Complications

• If untreated, mood disorders linked to physiological conditions can lead to increased functional impairment, reduced quality of life, and complications related to the underlying condition.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition and regular exercise, can support overall well-being. Preventive measures focus on managing and monitoring the primary physiological condition effectively.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical attention if there are sudden changes in mood, worsening symptoms, or if the mood disturbances significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.

Additional Resources

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Website
• American Psychological Association (APA): Website

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure documentation specifies the presence of an underlying physiological condition leading to the mood disorder.
• Avoid errors by not confusing this with primary mood disorders, which lack a distinguishable physiological cause.