ICD-11 Classification of ADHD (6A05)

Coding ADHD correctly starts with knowing where WHO placed it in ICD-11 — and how that shifted from the older ICD-10 frame.

In short

In ICD-11-MMS, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is classified under code 6A05, within the grouping of Neurodevelopmental disorders. This replaces the ICD-10 category of "hyperkinetic disorders" (F90) and aligns conceptually with the DSM-5 presentation model. ICD-11 defines it by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that emerges in the developmental period, is excessive for age and developmental level, and impairs functioning across multiple settings.

The classification, briefly

ADHD (6A05) sits in the ICD-11 chapter on mental, behavioural and neurodevelopmental disorders, reflecting its reconceptualisation as a neurodevelopmental condition rather than a disorder "usually arising in childhood". The category resolves into recognised presentations:

• 6A05.0 — predominantly inattentive presentation
• 6A05.1 — predominantly hyperactive-impulsive presentation
• 6A05.2 — combined presentation
• 6A05.Z — presentation unspecified

Key diagnostic principles under ICD-11: symptoms must be directly observable across more than one situation (home, school, clinic), present for an extended period (typically several months), and not better accounted for by another condition. Onset is in the developmental period, though ICD-11 — like DSM-5 — explicitly accommodates diagnosis in adolescence and adulthood where the pattern persists.

When to refer

Refer for structured developmental and behavioural assessment when inattention, hyperactivity or impulsivity is cross-situational, persistent, and functionally impairing beyond what age and context explain. Corroborate with multi-informant report (caregiver and school), screen for the common comorbidities — specific learning disorder, ASD, anxiety, sleep disturbance — and rule out hearing, vision and absence-seizure mimics before attributing presentation to ADHD alone.

The Pinnacle way

A clinical AbilityScore® and any formal diagnosis are established only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre, under qualified clinician care — never from a code, a form or an app. Our behavioural therapy pathways translate an ICD-11-aligned profile into a measurable, function-first support plan. Explore how [Pinnacle](/) supports neurodevelopmental presentations across 70+ centres.

Trusted sources

WHO ICD-11 (entry 6A05, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder); NICE NG87 on ADHD diagnosis and management; the American Academy of Pediatrics via HealthyChildren.org; and CDC developmental milestone guidance.

Next step — Refer a child with a suspected ADHD presentation for a clinician-led developmental assessment at your nearest Pinnacle centre.

This is general information, not a diagnosis — a clinical AbilityScore® and any diagnosis are formed only at a Pinnacle Blooms Network centre under qualified clinician care.