ICD-10 Coding for Esophageal Candida(B37.81)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Esophageal Candida. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Esophageal Candida
B37-B37.9Primary Range
Candidiasis
This range includes all forms of candidiasis, with B37.81 specifically for esophageal involvement.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for esophageal candida
Essential facts and insights about Esophageal Candida
Primary ICD-10-CM Code for esophageal candida
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of white plaques on endoscopy
documentation Criteria
- Biopsy confirmation of Candida pseudohyphae
Applicable To
- Esophageal candidiasis
Excludes
- Oral thrush (B37.0)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Endoscopic findings of white plaques
- Biopsy showing pseudohyphae invasion
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as B37.9 without site specification
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies esophageal involvement to use B37.81.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Differential 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 Esophageal Candida to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B37.81.
Impact
Clinical: Misrepresentation of the patient's condition., Regulatory: Potential for audit discrepancies., Financial: Incorrect reimbursement rates.
Mitigation Strategy
Verify site of infection through endoscopy, Ensure documentation specifies esophageal involvement
Impact
Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to lower reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.
Mitigation Strategy
Use B37.81 when esophageal candidiasis is confirmed.
Impact
Using B37.9 instead of B37.81 when esophageal involvement is documented.
Mitigation Strategy
Educate coders on the importance of site-specific coding.
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 Esophageal Candida, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Esophageal Candida
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Esophageal Candida. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
HIV patient with esophageal candidiasis
Specialty: GastroenterologyRequired Elements
- Endoscopic findings
- Biopsy results
- HIV status
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Esophageal Candida? Ask your questions below.