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ICD-10 Coding for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2(A60.01, A60.04)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Genital HerpesHSV-2

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2

A60Primary Range

Anogenital herpesviral infections

Primary range for genital herpes infections caused by HSV-2.

Herpesviral [herpes simplex] infections

Used for non-genital herpes infections caused by HSV-2.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
A60.01Herpesviral infection of penisUse when HSV-2 infection is confirmed on the penis.
  • PCR-confirmed HSV-2 from penile lesion
A60.04Herpesviral vulvovaginitisUse when HSV-2 infection is confirmed in the vulva or vagina.
  • PCR or culture-confirmed HSV-2 from vulvar or vaginal lesion

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 genital herpes

Essential facts and insights about Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2

The ICD-10 code for genital herpes caused by HSV-2 is A60.0x, with specific codes for different anatomical sites.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for herpes 2

Herpesviral infection of penis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of vesicular lesions on the penis with positive HSV-2 PCR.

Applicable To

  • HSV-2 infection of the penis

Excludes

  • Congenital herpesviral infection (P35.2)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • PCR-confirmed HSV-2 from penile lesion

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if site is not specified

Coding Notes

  • Ensure anatomical site is documented.

Ancillary Codes

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

Contact with and (suspected) exposure to infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission

Z20.2
Use when there is known exposure to HSV-2.

Differential Codes

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

Herpesviral vesicular dermatitis

B00.1
Use B00.1 for non-genital vesicular dermatitis.

Herpesviral gingivostomatitis and pharyngotonsillitis

B00.2
Use B00.2 for oral herpes infections.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code A60.01.

Impact

Clinical: May affect treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document HSV type when known, Use specific codes for genital vs. non-genital

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use A60 codes for genital herpes infections.

Impact

Using B00 codes for genital herpes cases.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate staff on correct code usage for genital herpes.

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 Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Genital herpes diagnosis

Specialty: Gynecology

Required Elements

  • Location of lesions
  • Type of test performed
  • Test results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with vesicular lesions on labia majora. HSV-2 DNA detected via PCR.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has herpes.
Good Documentation Example
Multiple 2-3mm ulcers on posterior fourchette, HSV-2 PCR positive. First clinical episode.
Explanation
The good example provides specific lesion details and confirmatory test results.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

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