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ICD-10 Coding for Nail Fungus(B35.1)

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

Also known as:

OnychomycosisTinea Unguium

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Nail Fungus

B35-B49Primary Range

Mycoses

This range includes fungal infections, with B35.1 specifically for onychomycosis.

Nail disorders

Includes nail disorders that may accompany or result from fungal infections.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for nail fungus

Essential facts and insights about Nail Fungus

The ICD-10 code for nail fungus is B35.1, used for confirmed fungal infections of the nail.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for nail fungus

Onychomycosis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Confirmed fungal infection via lab tests

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed description of nail appearance and test results

Applicable To

  • Fungal infection of the nail

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • KOH microscopy showing hyphae
  • Positive PAS stain
  • PCR confirmation of dermatophyte

Code-Specific Risks

  • Under-coding if not specifying laterality
  • Misuse if not confirmed by lab tests

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation supports fungal etiology with lab confirmation.

Ancillary Codes

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

Onycholysis

L60.1
Use if nail separation is secondary to fungal infection.

Candidiasis of skin and nail

B37.2
Use if Candida species is identified as the causative organism.

Differential Codes

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

Nail psoriasis

L40.2
Presence of nail pitting or oil spots, absence of fungal elements.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Nail Fungus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B35.1.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use specific language in clinical notes., Ensure lab results are documented.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure specific fungal infection is confirmed before coding.

Impact

Risk of audit if documentation does not support coded diagnosis.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure all clinical findings and test results are thoroughly documented.

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 Nail Fungus, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Nail Fungus

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

Routine Podiatry Visit

Specialty: Podiatry

Required Elements

  • Nail appearance
  • Diagnostic tests ordered
  • Treatment plan

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient has nail fungus.
Good Documentation Example
Patient presents with thickened, yellow toenails. KOH prep positive for hyphae. Plan: Oral antifungal therapy.
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical findings and a treatment plan.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Nail Fungus? Ask your questions below.

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