[Classification of mental disorders according to ICD 10]

This paper presents the characteristics and the origin of the International Classification of Diseases as well as its purposes. Particular attention is given to the part of the classification which deals with mental and behavioural disorders. This part of the classification differs from other parts in several respects. First, it is accompanied with definition of each of its categories; second, it is presented in several versions--for the practising clinician, for the research workers, for those working in primary health care--and exists in a uniaxial and a multiaxial version for the classification of disorders in children and in adults. Third, it has been thoroughly tested before its introduction; fourth, it has been developed in several languages simultaneously and now exists in equivalent versions in numerous languages; and fifth, its use is facilitated by an international network of research and training centres.