ICD-10 Coding for Foot Fungus(B35.3, B35.1)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Foot Fungus. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Foot Fungus
B35.0-B35.9Primary Range
Dermatophytosis
This range includes codes for fungal infections of the skin and nails, specifically tinea pedis and tinea unguium.
Nail disorders
This range includes codes for nail disorders, which can be used when fungal etiology is not confirmed.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| B35.3 | Tinea pedis | Use for fungal infections affecting the skin of the foot, confirmed by clinical findings or lab tests. |
|
| B35.1 | Tinea unguium | Use for fungal infections affecting the nails, confirmed by lab tests. |
|
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 foot fungus
Essential facts and insights about Foot Fungus
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for foot fungus
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of interdigital scaling and positive KOH test
documentation Criteria
- Detailed description of skin involvement
Applicable To
- Athlete's foot
- Fungal infection of the foot
Excludes
- Onychomycosis (B35.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Interdigital scaling
- Vesicular eruption
- Positive KOH preparation
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding as unspecified dermatophytosis (B35.9)
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the type of tinea pedis and any associated symptoms.
B35.1 - Tinea unguium
Use for fungal infections affecting the nails, confirmed by lab tests.
Applicable To
- Onychomycosis
- Fungal infection of the nail
Excludes
- Nail disorders without fungal etiology (L60.1)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Onycholysis
- Subungual debris
- Positive fungal culture
Coding Notes
Document the specific nail findings and confirm fungal etiology with lab tests.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Foot Fungus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code B35.3.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Use specific clinical terms., Confirm diagnosis with lab tests.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials or reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of health records.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure specific documentation and use B35.3 or B35.1 as appropriate.
Impact
Reimbursement: Claims may be denied for lack of specificity., Compliance: Violates ICD-10 coding rules., Data Quality: Impacts clinical decision-making and patient care.
Mitigation Strategy
Always specify the affected side in documentation.
Impact
Using unspecified codes can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation and use specific codes.
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 Foot Fungus, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Foot Fungus
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Foot Fungus. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Foot Fungus with Secondary Infection
Specialty: PodiatryRequired Elements
- Location of infection
- Type of fungal infection
- Diagnostic tests performed
- Associated symptoms
- Treatment plan
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Foot Fungus? Ask your questions below.