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ICD-10 Coding for Fungal Dermatitis(B35.4, B37.2)

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

Also known as:

DermatophytosisTineaCandidal Dermatitis

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Fungal Dermatitis

B35-B49Primary Range

Mycoses

This range includes specific fungal infections affecting the skin, nails, and other body parts.

Other Dermatitis

This range includes dermatitis not specified as fungal, but can be used if the fungal origin is not confirmed.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
B35.4Tinea corporisUse when there is confirmed dermatophytic infection of the body.
  • KOH prep positive for hyphae
  • Fungal culture identification
  • Histopathology showing fungal elements
B37.2Candidiasis of skinUse when candidal infection of the skin is confirmed.
  • Culture positive for Candida species
  • KOH prep showing pseudohyphae

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 fungal dermatitis

Essential facts and insights about Fungal Dermatitis

The ICD-10 code for fungal dermatitis varies: B35.4 for tinea corporis and B37.2 for candidiasis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for fungal dermatitis

Tinea corporis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Positive KOH or culture for dermatophytes.

Applicable To

  • Ringworm of body

Excludes

  • Candidiasis of skin (B37.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • KOH prep positive for hyphae
  • Fungal culture identification
  • Histopathology showing fungal elements

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if fungal etiology is not confirmed.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the type of fungus if identified.

Ancillary Codes

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

Onycholysis

L60.1
Use when nail involvement is present.

Skin disorder, unspecified

L98.9
Avoid unless no specific diagnosis can be made.

Differential Codes

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

Infective dermatitis

L30.3
Use L30.3 if the infection is not confirmed to be fungal.

Tinea corporis

B35.4
Use B35.4 if dermatophyte is confirmed instead of Candida.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Fungal Dermatitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B35.4.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Fails to meet documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use detailed descriptors for lesions, Include lab results in documentation

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment may occur., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Upgrade to B35-B49 code when lab confirmation is documented.

Impact

Risk of audits due to improper use of non-specific codes.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure lab confirmation and detailed documentation.

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 Fungal Dermatitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Fungal Dermatitis

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

Outpatient dermatology visit for suspected fungal infection

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • Location of lesion
  • Morphology description
  • Diagnostic tests performed
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with annular plaques on forearm. KOH prep positive for hyphae. Diagnosed with tinea corporis. Prescribed topical terbinafine.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Rash on arm. Treat with antifungal cream.
Good Documentation Example
4cm annular plaque with central clearing on R forearm. KOH positive for branching hyphae. Diagnosed tinea corporis. Rx: terbinafine 1% BID x 4 weeks.
Explanation
The good example provides specific lesion details and diagnostic confirmation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Fungal Dermatitis? Ask your questions below.

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