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ICD-10 Coding for Epstein-Barr Virus(B27.00, B97.21)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Epstein-Barr Virus. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

EBVInfectious MononucleosisGammaherpesviral Mononucleosis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Epstein-Barr Virus

B27Primary Range

Infectious mononucleosis

This range includes codes for infectious mononucleosis, primarily caused by Epstein-Barr virus.

Viral agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

This range includes codes for identifying the viral agent, such as EBV, when it is the cause of other diseases.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
B27.00Gammaherpesviral mononucleosis without complicationsUse when EBV is confirmed by serology or PCR with mononucleosis symptoms.
  • Positive VCA IgM ≥44 U/mL
  • EBNA IgG negative
  • Lymphocytosis >50%
B97.21Epstein-Barr virus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhereUse to indicate EBV as the causative agent in conditions like myocarditis.
  • Positive EBV PCR in sterile site
  • Organ-specific symptoms

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 Epstein-Barr virus

Essential facts and insights about Epstein-Barr Virus

The ICD-10 code for Epstein-Barr virus is B27.00 when confirmed by lab tests.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for epstein–barr virus

Gammaherpesviral mononucleosis without complications
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of EBV-specific antibodies or positive PCR test.

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed documentation of symptoms and lab results confirming EBV.

Applicable To

  • Chronic active EBV infection
  • Epstein-Barr virus disease

Excludes

  • Cytomegaloviral mononucleosis (B27.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Positive VCA IgM ≥44 U/mL
  • EBNA IgG negative
  • Lymphocytosis >50%

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly using B27 when EBV is confirmed.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies EBV confirmation through lab tests.

Ancillary Codes

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

Epstein-Barr virus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B97.21
Use as a secondary code to identify EBV as the causative agent in other conditions.

Differential Codes

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

Infectious mononucleosis

B27
Use B27 when mononucleosis is documented without specifying EBV.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Epstein-Barr Virus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B27.00.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure lab confirmation of EBV is documented., Use specific ICD-10 codes.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure EBV confirmation is documented to use B27.00.

Impact

Risk of using non-specific codes for EBV.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on ICD-10 updates and documentation standards.

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 Epstein-Barr Virus, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Epstein-Barr Virus

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Epstein-Barr Virus. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute EBV Mononucleosis

Specialty: Infectious Disease

Required Elements

  • Chief Complaint
  • EBV Testing Results
  • Physical Findings
  • Assessment

Example Documentation

Chief Complaint: Fatigue and sore throat. EBV Testing: VCA IgM: 62 U/mL, EBNA IgG: Negative. Physical Findings: Posterior cervical lymphadenopathy. Assessment: Acute EBV mononucleosis (B27.00).

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Mononucleosis
Good Documentation Example
Acute EBV infection confirmed by positive VCA IgM and heterophile antibody, presenting with fever and lymphadenopathy.
Explanation
The good example includes specific lab results and symptoms, ensuring accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Epstein-Barr Virus? Ask your questions below.

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