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ICD-10 Coding for Acute Vaginitis(N76.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Acute Vaginitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Vaginal InflammationVaginal Infection

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Acute Vaginitis

N70-N77Primary Range

Inflammatory diseases of female pelvic organs

This range includes codes for inflammatory conditions affecting female pelvic organs, including acute vaginitis.

Candidiasis

This range includes codes for candidiasis, which can be a differential diagnosis for acute vaginitis.

Trichomoniasis

This range includes codes for trichomoniasis, another differential diagnosis for acute vaginitis.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for acute vaginitis

Essential facts and insights about Acute Vaginitis

The ICD-10 code for acute vaginitis is N76.0, used for acute inflammatory presentations without a confirmed pathogen.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for acute vaginitis

Acute vaginitis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of clue cells and positive whiff test

coding Criteria

  • No specific pathogen identified

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed findings including pH and microscopy results

Applicable To

  • Bacterial vaginosis diagnosed via clinical criteria

Excludes

  • Chronic vaginitis (N76.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Vaginal pH >4.5
  • Positive whiff test
  • Presence of clue cells on wet mount

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrect use when a specific pathogen is identified

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation supports the use of N76.0 with specific clinical findings.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Other specified bacterial agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B96.89
Use when a specific bacterial agent is identified via Gram stain or PCR.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Candidiasis of vulva and vagina

B37.3
Use if microscopy or KOH prep confirms yeast.

Trichomonal vulvovaginitis

A59.01
Use if Trichomonas vaginalis is detected.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Acute Vaginitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code N76.0.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use structured templates., Include specific test results.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials if incorrect code is used., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use B37.3 if yeast is confirmed.

Impact

Using N76.0 without supporting documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all clinical criteria are documented.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Acute Vaginitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Acute Vaginitis

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Acute Vaginitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute vaginitis diagnosis in primary care

Specialty: Primary Care

Required Elements

  • Patient symptoms
  • Vaginal pH
  • Whiff test result
  • Microscopy findings

Example Documentation

**Subjective:** 28yo F c/o vaginal discharge and odor x5 days. **Objective:** pH 5.2, positive whiff test, clue cells on wet mount. **Assessment:** Acute vaginitis (N76.0). **Plan:** Metronidazole gel.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Vaginitis treated with antibiotics.
Good Documentation Example
Acute vaginitis (N76.0) confirmed by pH 5.0, clue cells on wet mount; treated with clindamycin cream. B96.89 added for Gardnerella detected via PCR.
Explanation
The good example includes specific clinical findings and appropriate coding for identified pathogens.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Acute Vaginitis? Ask your questions below.

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