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ICD-10 Coding for Vaginal Itching(L29.2, B37.3, N76.0)

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

Also known as:

Vulvar ItchingPruritus Vulvae

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Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Vaginal Itching

L29-L29.9Primary Range

Pruritus

This range includes codes for pruritus, specifically L29.2 for pruritus vulvae, which is relevant for isolated vaginal itching.

B37-B37.9

Candidiasis

This range includes codes for candidiasis, such as B37.3, which is used when vaginal itching is due to a Candida infection.

N76-N76.9

Inflammatory diseases of female pelvic organs

This range includes codes for vaginitis, such as N76.0, which is used when vaginal itching is associated with inflammation.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
L29.2Pruritus vulvaeUse when itching is localized to the vulva without accompanying discharge or inflammation.
  • Documentation of vulvar itching without signs of inflammation or infection.
B37.3Candidiasis of vulva and vaginaUse when itching is due to a confirmed Candida infection.
  • Positive KOH test showing pseudohyphae.
  • Vaginal pH <4.5.
N76.0Acute vaginitisUse when itching is associated with inflammation and discharge.
  • Documentation of vaginal erythema and purulent discharge.

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 vaginal itching

Essential facts and insights about Vaginal Itching

The ICD-10 code for vaginal itching without inflammation is L29.2, used for pruritus vulvae.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for vaginal itching

L29.2
Pruritus vulvae
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of vulvar itching without discharge or erythema.

Applicable To

  • Vulvar itching

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Documentation of vulvar itching without signs of inflammation or infection.

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of undercoding if inflammation or infection is present but not documented.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation clearly states the absence of inflammation or infection to use L29.2.
View Full Code Details

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Encounter for gynecological examination (general) (routine) without abnormal findings

Z01.419
Use if a gynecological exam is performed during the visit.

Other specified symptoms and signs involving the digestive system and abdomen

R19.8
Use if pelvic pain is present.

Other specified bacterial agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B96.89
Use if bacterial vaginosis is confirmed.

Differential Codes

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

Acute vaginitis

N76.0
Use N76.0 if there is documented inflammation or discharge.

Pruritus vulvae

L29.2
Use L29.2 if there is no inflammation.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Vaginal Itching to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L29.2.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to misdiagnosis., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure lab results are documented in the patient's record., Verify documentation before coding.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to denied claims if inflammation is not documented., Compliance: Inaccurate coding can result in audits., Data Quality: Leads to incorrect data on prevalence of conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Use L29.2 unless vaginitis is confirmed.

Impact

Using N76.0 without documented inflammation.

Mitigation Strategy

Train coders to verify documentation before 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 Vaginal Itching, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Vaginal Itching

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

Vulvar itching without discharge

Specialty: Gynecology

Required Elements

  • Location of itching
  • Duration of symptoms
  • Absence of discharge
  • Lab test results

Example Documentation

Patient reports vulvar itching for 3 days. No discharge observed. pH 4.2, KOH negative.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient complains of itching.
Good Documentation Example
Patient reports 3 days of vulvar itching, no discharge, pH 4.2, KOH negative.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details and test results, supporting the use of L29.2.

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

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