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ICD-10 Coding for Tinea Capitis(B35.0)

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

Also known as:

Scalp RingwormFungal Scalp Infection

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Tinea Capitis

B35-B49Primary Range

Mycoses

This range includes dermatophytosis, which encompasses tinea capitis.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for tinea capitis

Essential facts and insights about Tinea Capitis

The ICD-10 code for tinea capitis is B35.0, which includes both tinea barbae and tinea capitis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for tinea capitis

Tinea barbae and tinea capitis
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of scalp scaling, alopecia, and positive KOH test.

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed documentation of clinical findings and test results.

Applicable To

  • Fungal infection of the scalp
  • Ringworm of the scalp

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • KOH microscopy showing hyphae
  • Positive fungal culture
  • Dermoscopy findings such as comma hairs

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if organism is not specified
  • Inaccurate coding if clinical findings are not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure organism identification and clinical findings are documented to support coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Encounter for immunization

Z23
Use if prophylactic treatment is provided to prevent spread.

Inadequate housing

Z59.81
Use if social determinants of health impact the condition.

Differential Codes

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

Non-scarring hair loss

L65.9
Absence of fungal elements and presence of other causes of hair loss.

Other specified epidermal thickening

L85.8
Presence of thickened skin without fungal infection.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Tinea Capitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B35.0.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit and non-compliance., Financial: Potential for claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Document all test results, Include detailed clinical findings

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Use B35.0 with organism-specific documentation.

Impact

Using unspecified codes when specific organism is identified.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure organism identification is documented and coded.

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 Tinea Capitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Tinea Capitis

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

Confirmed Tinea Capitis in Dermatology

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • History of present illness
  • Physical examination findings
  • Diagnostic test results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

SUBJECTIVE: Patient reports itchy scalp with hair loss. OBJECTIVE: Scalp shows scaling and broken hairs. KOH test positive. ASSESSMENT: Tinea capitis (B35.0). PLAN: Prescribe oral antifungal.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Scalp rash, prescribe antifungal.
Good Documentation Example
Scalp shows erythema and scaling. KOH test positive for hyphae. Prescribe terbinafine.
Explanation
The good example includes specific clinical findings and test results supporting the diagnosis.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Tinea Capitis? Ask your questions below.

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