ICD-10 Coding for Erythema Nodosum(L52, A18.4)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Erythema Nodosum. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Erythema Nodosum
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L52 | Erythema nodosum | Use when erythema nodosum is confirmed and not related to tuberculosis. |
|
| A18.4 | Tuberculous erythema nodosum | Use when erythema nodosum is confirmed to be due to tuberculosis. |
|
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 erythema nodosum
Essential facts and insights about Erythema Nodosum
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for erythema nodosum
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of tender, erythematous nodules on shins
coding Criteria
- Exclude tuberculosis as a cause
Applicable To
- Idiopathic erythema nodosum
- Drug-induced erythema nodosum
Excludes
- Tuberculous erythema nodosum (A18.4)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy showing septal panniculitis
- Clinical presentation of tender, erythematous nodules
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding when related to tuberculosis
Coding Notes
- Ensure to document any underlying conditions or triggers.
A18.4 - Tuberculous erythema nodosum
Use when erythema nodosum is confirmed to be due to tuberculosis.
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive TB culture or IGRA
- Biopsy showing granulomas with caseous necrosis
Coding Notes
Ensure tuberculosis is confirmed through appropriate testing.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Sarcoidosis, unspecified
D86.9Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Erythema Nodosum to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L52.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate treatment planning, Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards, Financial: Potential claim denials
Mitigation Strategy
Thorough patient history, Comprehensive diagnostic testing
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate health records and statistics.
Mitigation Strategy
Use A18.4 when tuberculosis is the confirmed cause.
Impact
Failure to code underlying conditions first.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement coding audits and training.
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 Erythema Nodosum, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Erythema Nodosum
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Erythema Nodosum. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Erythema nodosum with underlying sarcoidosis
Specialty: RheumatologyRequired Elements
- Lesion characteristics
- Associated symptoms
- Test results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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