Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Anal Pruritus(L29.0)

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

Also known as:

Pruritus AniAnal Itching

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Anal Pruritus

L29-L29.9Primary Range

Pruritus

This range includes codes for various types of pruritus, with L29.0 specifically for pruritus ani.

Hemorrhoids and perianal venous thrombosis

Relevant when pruritus ani is associated with hemorrhoids.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for anal pruritus

Essential facts and insights about Anal Pruritus

The ICD-10 code for anal pruritus is L29.0, used for itching localized to the anal region.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for anal pruritus

Pruritus ani
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of intense itching localized to the perianal region.

documentation Criteria

  • Documentation of negative tests for other causes.

Applicable To

  • Anal itching

Excludes

  • Anogenital pruritus, unspecified (L29.3)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Negative stool studies for ova/parasites
  • Absence of dermatologic conditions like psoriasis

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding as L29.9 when specifics are documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the anal region and any associated symptoms like excoriation.

Ancillary Codes

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

Other specified candidiasis

B37.8
Use when a secondary fungal infection is present, confirmed by KOH test.

Differential Codes

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

Anogenital pruritus, unspecified

L29.3
Use when the provider does not specify whether the pruritus is anal or genital.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Anal Pruritus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L29.0.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all relevant tests are documented., Review documentation for completeness.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect billing and reimbursement issues., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Query provider for clarification if documentation is insufficient.

Impact

Lack of documentation for chronicity can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure duration is clearly documented in patient records.

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 Anal Pruritus, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Anal Pruritus

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

Chronic anal itching with no visible hemorrhoids

Specialty: Gastroenterology

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical examination findings
  • Laboratory test results

Example Documentation

Subjective: '72M reports 6-month history of anal itching unresponsive to OTC creams.' Objective: 'Perianal skin lichenified with 2cm excoriation at 6 o’clock.' Assessment: 'Chronic pruritus ani (L29.0) secondary to fecal seepage.'

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Anal itch, treat with cream.
Good Documentation Example
Chronic pruritus ani x 8 weeks. Failed hydrocortisone 1% cream. Perianal biopsy negative for malignancy. Plan: Triamcinolone 0.1% ointment.
Explanation
The good example provides detailed history, failed treatments, and a clear plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Anal Pruritus? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more