ICD-10 Coding for Folliculitis(L73.9, L66.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Folliculitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Folliculitis
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L73.9 | Unspecified follicular disorder | Use when documentation lacks specificity regarding type or cause of folliculitis. |
|
| L66.2 | Folliculitis decalvans | Use when scarring alopecia is present with follicular pustules. |
|
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 folliculitis
Essential facts and insights about Folliculitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for folliculitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Lack of specific organism or location in documentation.
Applicable To
- Folliculitis NOS
Excludes
- Acne (L70.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of follicular inflammation without specific organism or location.
Code-Specific Risks
- May lead to undercoding if specific details are available but not documented.
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies if a specific organism is identified.
L66.2 - Folliculitis decalvans
Use when scarring alopecia is present with follicular pustules.
Applicable To
- Scarring alopecia with follicular pustules
Excludes
- Non-scarring alopecia (L65.-)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy confirms perifollicular fibrosis and pustules.
Coding Notes
Document scarring and organism if identified.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Cutaneous abscess of trunk
L01.02Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Folliculitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L73.9.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for reduced reimbursement.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff on importance of culture documentation., Implement checklist for documentation completeness.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower DRG assignment and reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Code organism-specific folliculitis (e.g., B95.2 + L73.0 for S. aureus).
Impact
Use of unspecified codes when specific codes are available.
Mitigation Strategy
Regular audits and coder education on specificity.
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 Folliculitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Folliculitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Folliculitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Folliculitis with abscess
Specialty: DermatologyRequired Elements
- Lesion description
- Culture results
- Treatment response
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Folliculitis? Ask your questions below.