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ICD-10 Coding for Impetigo Contagiosa(L01.01, L01.03)

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

Also known as:

Non-bullous impetigoBullous impetigo

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Impetigo Contagiosa

L01.0-L01.09Primary Range

Impetigo and related conditions

This range includes codes for different types of impetigo, which are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment documentation.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
L01.01Non-bullous impetigoUse when lesions are crusted without bullae.
  • Presence of honey-colored crusts
  • Gram stain showing Gram-positive cocci
L01.03Bullous impetigoUse when lesions are bullous.
  • Presence of fluid-filled bullae
  • Minimal crusting

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 impetigo contagiosa

Essential facts and insights about Impetigo Contagiosa

The ICD-10 code for non-bullous impetigo is L01.01, and for bullous impetigo, it is L01.03. Accurate documentation of lesion type is crucial for correct coding.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for impetigo contagiosa

Non-bullous impetigo
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of honey-colored crusts without bullae

Applicable To

  • Honey-colored crusts
  • Erythematous erosions

Excludes

  • Impetigo herpetiformis (L40.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Presence of honey-colored crusts
  • Gram stain showing Gram-positive cocci

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with eczema if crusts are not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies crusting to differentiate from bullous impetigo.

Ancillary Codes

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

Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.61
Use when culture confirms Staphylococcus aureus.

Differential Codes

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

Herpes simplex

B00.1
Clustered vesicles on erythematous base; PCR-positive.

Contact dermatitis

L25.9
Linear/geometric pattern; history of allergen exposure.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Impetigo Contagiosa to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L01.01.

Impact

Clinical: Inaccurate representation of infection etiology., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential claim denials or reduced reimbursement.

Mitigation Strategy

Always check lab results for organism confirmation.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 specificity requirements., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data affecting patient care.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies presence of bullae or crusts.

Impact

Failure to document lesion type can lead to incorrect coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Train staff to document lesion characteristics accurately.

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 Impetigo Contagiosa, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Impetigo Contagiosa

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

Pediatric presentation of impetigo

Specialty: Pediatrics

Required Elements

  • Lesion description
  • Microbiology results
  • Treatment plan

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Rash on face.
Good Documentation Example
Multiple 1-2 cm honey-colored crusted erosions on chin and cheeks; Gram stain shows Gram-positive cocci in clusters.
Explanation
The good example provides specific lesion characteristics and lab results, supporting accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Impetigo Contagiosa? Ask your questions below.

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