ICD-10 Coding for Viral Exanthem Rash(B08.21, B08.3, B09)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Viral Exanthem Rash. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Viral Exanthem Rash
B08.2-B08.3Primary Range
Viral infections characterized by skin and mucous membrane lesions
This range includes specific viral exanthems such as roseola and erythema infectiosum.
Unspecified viral infection characterized by skin and mucous membrane lesions
Used when the specific viral cause of the exanthem is not identified.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| B08.21 | Roseola infantum, HHV-6 confirmed | Use when HHV-6 is confirmed as the cause of roseola. |
|
| B08.3 | Erythema infectiosum | Use when erythema infectiosum is confirmed, typically with 'slapped cheek' appearance. |
|
| B09 | Unspecified viral infection characterized by skin and mucous membrane lesions | Use when the specific viral cause of the rash is not identified. |
|
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 viral exanthem rash
Essential facts and insights about Viral Exanthem Rash
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for viral exanthem rash
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- HHV-6 PCR positive
B08.3 - Erythema infectiosum
Use when erythema infectiosum is confirmed, typically with 'slapped cheek' appearance.
Applicable To
- Fifth disease
Excludes
- Measles (B05)
- Rubella (B06)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Parvovirus B19 IgM positive
- 'Slapped cheek' rash appearance
Coding Notes
Documentation must include 'slapped cheek' appearance.
B09 - Unspecified viral infection characterized by skin and mucous membrane lesions
Use when the specific viral cause of the rash is not identified.
Excludes
- Specific viral exanthems (B08.2-B08.3)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Generalized rash without specific viral identification
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation attempts to identify the viral cause.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Rash and other nonspecific skin eruption
R21Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Viral Exanthem Rash to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B08.21.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment decisions., Regulatory: Increases risk of audit and compliance issues., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure thorough documentation of clinical findings, Request laboratory confirmation when possible
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower DRG assignment and reimbursement., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to unspecified coding., Data Quality: Reduces specificity and accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific codes like B08.21 or B08.3 when the virus is identified.
Impact
Using B09 without attempting to identify specific viral cause.
Mitigation Strategy
Encourage detailed documentation and laboratory testing.
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 Viral Exanthem Rash, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Viral Exanthem Rash
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Viral Exanthem Rash. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Pediatric patient with viral rash
Specialty: PediatricsRequired Elements
- Chief complaint
- History of present illness
- Physical examination findings
- Laboratory results
- Assessment and plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Viral Exanthem Rash? Ask your questions below.