F72: Severe mental retardation
Severe mental retardation, classified under F72, is a developmental disorder linked with substantial intellectual disabilities. It is generally diagnosed before a person is 18 years old, and is characterized by critically low IQ scores, often under 35. Individuals who have severe mental retardation frequently encounter substantial hurdles in their daily lives, requiring constant support to carry out common tasks such as eating, dressing, and communication. Such individuals may also display a limited comprehension of social skills and concepts, including safety awareness and decision-making. The condition is not contagious, but rather is a result of factors like genetic abnormalities, brain damage, or exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy. The severity of symptoms can progress over time, but varies widely among individuals. Both the nervous system and behavioral faculties are dramatically affected by this disorder.
Subcodes of F72:
- F72.0: Severe mental retardation with the statement of no, or minimal, impairment of behaviour
- F72.1: Severe mental retardation : significant impairment of behaviour requiring attention or treatment
- F72.8: Severe mental retardation : other impairments of behaviour
- F72.9: Severe mental retardation without mention of impairment of behaviour
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