From parent levels
ChapterVMental and behavioural disordersOpen
BlockF70-F79Mental retardationOpen
A condition of arrested or incomplete development of the mind, which is especially characterized by impairment of skills manifested during the developmental period, skills which contribute to the overall level of intelligence, i.e. cognitive, language, motor, and social abilities. Retardation can occur with or without any other mental or physical condition. Degrees of mental retardation are conventionally estimated by standardized intelligence tests. These can be supplemented by scales assessing social adaptation in a given environment. These measures provide an approximate indication of the degree of mental retardation. The diagnosis will also depend on the overall assessment of intellectual functioning by a skilled diagnostician. Intellectual abilities and social adaptation may change over time, and, however poor, may improve as a result of training and rehabilitation. Diagnosis should be based on the current levels of functioning.
Coding note
Use additional code, if desired, to identify associated conditions such as autism, other developmental disorders, epilepsy, conduct disorders, or severe physical handicap.
Modifiers
The following fourth-character subdivisions are for use with categories F70-F79 to identify the extent of impairment of behaviour:
- .0 With the statement of no, or minimal, impairment of behaviour
- .1 Significant impairment of behaviour requiring attention or treatment
- .8 Other impairments of behaviour
- .9 Without mention of impairment of behaviour
Profound mental retardation
IQ under 20 (in adults, mental age below 3 years). Results in severe limitation in self-care, continence, communication and mobility.
Inclusions
- profound mental subnormality