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ICD-10 Coding for Uvula Swelling(K13.79, T78.40XA)

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

Also known as:

UvulitisSwollen Uvula

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Uvula Swelling

K13.79Primary Range

Other lesions of oral mucosa

This range includes conditions affecting the uvula, such as uvulitis.

Allergy, unspecified

Used when uvula swelling is due to an allergic reaction.

Streptococcal pharyngitis

Used when uvula swelling is associated with streptococcal infection.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
K13.79Other lesions of oral mucosaUse when the primary concern is uvula swelling without a specified cause.
  • Documentation of uvula swelling
  • Clinical examination confirming uvulitis
T78.40XAAllergy, unspecifiedUse when uvula swelling is due to an allergic reaction.
  • Documentation of allergic reaction symptoms
  • History of allergen exposure

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 uvula swelling

Essential facts and insights about Uvula Swelling

The ICD-10 code for uvula swelling is K13.79, covering lesions of the oral mucosa.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for uvula swelling

Other lesions of oral mucosa
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of uvula swelling confirmed by examination

documentation Criteria

  • Provider documentation specifies uvulitis

Applicable To

  • Uvulitis
  • Swollen uvula

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of uvula swelling
  • Clinical examination confirming uvulitis

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if cause is not documented

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the cause of uvula swelling for accurate coding.

Ancillary Codes

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

Streptococcus, group A, as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.0
Use when uvulitis is due to a streptococcal infection.

Differential Codes

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

Streptococcal pharyngitis

J02.0
Use when uvula swelling is due to streptococcal infection.

Allergy, unspecified

T78.40XA
Use when uvula swelling is due to an allergic reaction.

Angioedema

T78.3XXA
Use when swelling is generalized and includes other areas.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Uvula Swelling to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K13.79.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Educate providers on the importance of detailed documentation., Use templates to guide comprehensive note-taking.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect reimbursement if not coded accurately., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure uvulitis is documented and code K13.79 is used.

Impact

Risk of audits due to vague documentation of uvula swelling.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement provider education and use of documentation templates.

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 Uvula Swelling, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Uvula Swelling

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

Emergency Department Visit for Uvula Swelling

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Size and color of uvula
  • Presence of erythema or exudate
  • Airway assessment
  • Etiology (infectious, allergic, traumatic)

Example Documentation

UVULA ASSESSMENT: Size: 2.5 cm, Color: Erythematous, Exudate: Absent, Airway: Patent, Etiology: Allergic reaction to shellfish.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Uvula enlarged.
Good Documentation Example
Uvula measures 2.5 cm (3x baseline) with erythema, no airway compromise.
Explanation
The good example provides specific measurements and clinical details necessary for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Uvula Swelling? Ask your questions below.

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