ICD-10 Coding for Cat Scratch Disease(A28.1, S61.451A)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cat Scratch Disease. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cat Scratch Disease
A28.0-A28.9Primary Range
Other zoonotic bacterial diseases
Includes cat-scratch disease caused by Bartonella henselae.
Contact with and exposure to animals
External cause codes for injuries related to animal contact.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| A28.1 | Cat-scratch disease | Use when clinical criteria for cat-scratch disease are met, including confirmed Bartonella infection. |
|
| S61.451A | Open bite of right hand, initial encounter | Use for initial treatment of a cat bite on the right hand. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for cat scratch disease
Essential facts and insights about Cat Scratch Disease
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cat scratch
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of lymphadenopathy and positive Bartonella test
documentation Criteria
- Detailed exposure history and lab results
Applicable To
- Bartonella henselae infection
Excludes
- Other bacterial zoonotic diseases
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Lymphadenopathy near scratch site
- Fever ≥100.4°F for >3 days
- Positive Bartonella IgG/IgM titer
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use without clinical confirmation
- Missing documentation of Bartonella confirmation
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation includes exposure history and lab confirmation.
S61.451A - Open bite of right hand, initial encounter
Use for initial treatment of a cat bite on the right hand.
Applicable To
- Cat bite
Excludes
- Infections without injury
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Visible bite marks
- Patient history of cat bite
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality and encounter type are documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cat Scratch Disease to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code A28.1.
Impact
Clinical: Incomplete clinical picture of the incident., Regulatory: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding rules., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Always pair injury codes with appropriate external cause codes., Review documentation for completeness before coding.
Impact
Reimbursement: May result in denied claims due to incomplete coding., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate injury data in patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Always pair W54.0XXA with an appropriate injury code like S61.451A.
Impact
Failure to document all necessary details for cat scratch-related conditions.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement thorough documentation practices and regular audits.
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 Cat Scratch Disease, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cat Scratch Disease
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cat Scratch Disease. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Emergency Department Visit for Cat Scratch
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Injury description
- Location and laterality
- Symptoms and signs
- Exposure history
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cat Scratch Disease? Ask your questions below.