ICD-10 Coding for Chickenpox(B01.9, B01.0, B01.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Chickenpox. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Chickenpox
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| B01.9 | Varicella without complication | Use for cases of chickenpox without any documented complications. |
|
| B01.0 | Varicella meningitis | Use when varicella is complicated by meningitis. |
|
| B01.2 | Varicella pneumonia | Use when varicella is complicated by pneumonia. |
|
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 chickenpox
Essential facts and insights about Chickenpox
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for chickenpox
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- No complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis.
Applicable To
- Uncomplicated chickenpox
Excludes
- Herpes zoster (B02.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Presence of vesicular rash
- Fever
- Positive VZV PCR
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification if complications are present but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure no complications are documented before using this code.
B01.0 - Varicella meningitis
Use when varicella is complicated by meningitis.
Applicable To
- Chickenpox with meningitis
Excludes
- Herpes zoster meningitis (B02.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Headache
- Nuchal rigidity
- CSF pleocytosis
Coding Notes
Document neurological symptoms and CSF analysis results.
B01.2 - Varicella pneumonia
Use when varicella is complicated by pneumonia.
Applicable To
- Chickenpox with pneumonia
Excludes
- Herpes zoster pneumonia (B02.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Oxygen saturation <92%
- Infiltrates on chest X-ray
Coding Notes
Document respiratory symptoms and imaging results.
Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Zoster [herpes zoster]
B02Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Chickenpox to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B01.9.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresents current patient status., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify active infection status, Use history code if resolved
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may affect payment rates., Compliance: May lead to compliance issues with coding standards., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify rash distribution and patient history.
Impact
Failure to document complications can lead to audit issues.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of all symptoms and test results.
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 Chickenpox, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Chickenpox
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Chickenpox. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Pediatric varicella case
Specialty: PediatricsRequired Elements
- Rash description
- Fever pattern
- Complication assessment
- Lab confirmation
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Chickenpox? Ask your questions below.