Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Herpes Zoster (Shingles)(B02.9, B02.3)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Herpes Zoster (Shingles). Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

ShinglesZosterHerpes Zoster

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

B02Primary Range

Zoster [herpes zoster]

This range includes all codes related to herpes zoster, including complications and specific manifestations.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
B02.9Zoster without complicationsUse for cases of shingles without any complications.
  • Vesicular rash in a dermatomal distribution
  • PCR positive for VZV
B02.3Zoster ocular diseaseUse when shingles affects the eye.
  • Ocular involvement confirmed by slit lamp exam
  • PCR positive for VZV

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 herpes zoster

Essential facts and insights about Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

The ICD-10 code for herpes zoster without complications is B02.9.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for herpes zoster shingles

Zoster without complications
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of vesicular rash in a single dermatome

Applicable To

  • Uncomplicated shingles

Excludes

  • Postherpetic neuralgia (G53.0)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Vesicular rash in a dermatomal distribution
  • PCR positive for VZV

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if complications are present but not documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation of rash distribution and PCR results.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for immunization

Z23
Use when documenting zoster vaccination.

Differential Codes

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

Herpesviral infection, unspecified

B00.9
Use B02.9 for dermatomal rash and positive VZV PCR.

Keratitis, unspecified

H16.9
Use B02.3 when VZV is confirmed.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Herpes Zoster (Shingles) to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B02.9.

Impact

Clinical: Misleading clinical history., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim rejections.

Mitigation Strategy

Use Z86.19 for history of shingles.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding can lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records.

Mitigation Strategy

Code G53.0 only after 90 days post-rash.

Impact

Failure to sequence disseminated zoster before HIV in HIV+ patients.

Mitigation Strategy

Review sequencing rules and ensure correct order.

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 Zoster (Shingles), with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Herpes Zoster (Shingles)

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Herpes Zoster (Shingles). These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Acute shingles presentation

Specialty: General Practice

Required Elements

  • History of present illness
  • Rash description
  • Pain characteristics
  • PCR results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with vesicular rash in T4-6 dermatomal distribution, PCR positive for VZV.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Rash on torso - shingles
Good Documentation Example
Grouped vesicles in T4-6 dermatomal distribution with allodynia, PCR positive for VZV
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on rash distribution and lab confirmation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Herpes Zoster (Shingles)? Ask your questions below.

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

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more