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ICD-10 Coding for Uvulitis(K12.2)

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

Also known as:

Uvula inflammationSwollen uvula

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Uvulitis

K12-K14Primary Range

Diseases of oral soft tissues

This range includes conditions affecting the oral cavity, including uvulitis.

Acute upper respiratory infections

Relevant for differential diagnosis when uvulitis is part of a broader upper respiratory infection.

Adverse effects, not elsewhere classified

Includes allergic reactions such as angioedema, which can mimic uvulitis.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for uvulitis

Essential facts and insights about Uvulitis

The ICD-10 code for uvulitis is K12.2, which includes cellulitis and abscess of the mouth.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for uvulitis

Cellulitis and abscess of mouth
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of purulent exudate and positive rapid strep test

documentation Criteria

  • Documented erythematous and edematous uvula

Applicable To

  • Uvulitis

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Purulent uvular swelling
  • Concurrent oral cellulitis
  • Infectious etiology confirmed by lab tests

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification if non-infectious causes are present
  • Excludes angioedema which requires T78.3

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies infectious etiology to avoid misclassification.

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 to specify the causative organism in infectious uvulitis.

Differential Codes

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

Angioedema

T78.3
Use for non-erythematous swelling with allergic history.

Streptococcal pharyngitis

J02.0
Use when uvulitis is secondary to streptococcal infection.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Uvulitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code K12.2.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment if etiology is unclear., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines requiring specificity., Financial: Potential claim denials due to lack of specificity.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document lab results and clinical findings, Use specific terminology for infectious vs. allergic causes

Impact

Reimbursement: May result in lower reimbursement due to less specific coding., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 specificity requirements., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of clinical data for research and reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure specific documentation of uvulitis to use K12.2.

Impact

Risk of audits due to non-specific coding of uvulitis.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure detailed documentation of clinical findings and lab results.

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

Documentation Templates for Uvulitis

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

Infectious uvulitis in emergency department

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Required Elements

  • Patient history of acute onset
  • Physical exam findings
  • Laboratory results
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

Patient presents with acute-onset odynophagia. Exam reveals 3x enlarged uvula with erythema and purulent exudate. Rapid strep test positive. Diagnosis: Streptococcal uvulitis.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Uvula looks bad, treat with antibiotics
Good Documentation Example
3.5cm erythematous uvula with submandibular induration. CT neck shows no abscess. Rapid strep positive. K12.2 confirmed.
Explanation
The good example provides specific measurements, lab results, and confirms the diagnosis with appropriate coding.

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

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