Name of the Condition

• Blood Alcohol Level of 60-79 mg/100 ml
• Also referred to with the ICD code Y90.3

Summary

This condition represents a measurable blood alcohol concentration (BAC) typically indicating moderate intoxication. It is a quantitative assessment used often in clinical and legal settings to evaluate the extent of alcohol consumption.

Causes

• The primary cause is the consumption of alcoholic beverages. The BAC can rise based on the amount consumed, the timeframe of consumption, and individual metabolic factors.

Risk Factors

• Volume and frequency of alcohol consumption
• Body weight and composition
• Age and gender
• Genetic factors affecting alcohol metabolism
• Use of certain medications that interact with alcohol

Symptoms

• Mild to moderate impairment of motor functions
• Reduced reaction times
• Altered judgment and decision-making abilities
• Potential for mood swings or emotional responses

Diagnosis

• Blood tests specifically measuring the ethanol concentration
• Breathalyzers as a preliminary assessment tool
• Confirmatory testing using gas chromatography

Treatment Options

• Observation and monitoring, especially if symptoms are moderate
• Intravenous fluids to help metabolize and eliminate alcohol more efficiently
• Supportive care and monitoring for complications

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Typically, individuals recover without lasting effects as the BAC decreases over time.
• Follow-up care might include counseling or behavioral therapy if there is a pattern of alcohol misuse.

Complications

• Risk of accidents or injuries due to impaired motor skills and judgment
• Potential for alcohol overdose if consumption continues unchecked
• Long-term health risks if habitual high consumption occurs

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Limiting alcohol intake to moderate levels
• Avoiding drinking on an empty stomach
• Staying informed about one's own alcohol tolerance and metabolism
• Arranging for safe transportation when planning to consume alcohol

When to Seek Professional Help

• Experiencing or observing signs of alcohol poisoning: severe confusion, vomiting, seizures, slow breathing
• Persistent inability to control drinking despite negative consequences

Additional Resources

• National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
• Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) for support and recovery resources
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for information on alcohol consumption

Tips for Medical Coders

• Verify the blood test results indicate a BAC of 60-79 mg/100 ml before using the Y90.3 code.
• Ensure accurate documentation of the context and source of information to support the use of this code.
• Be alert to potential overlapping conditions or complications that may require additional codes.