ICD-10 Code A26.9 | Erysipeloid, unspecified Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Erysipeloid, unspecified is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, primarily affecting individuals who handle animals or animal products. It presents with localized skin lesions and can lead to systemic symptoms if untreated. Accurate coding with ICD-10 Code A26.9 is essential for proper diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting, ensuring that healthcare providers can track and manage this condition effectively.

What is ICD-10 Code A26.9 for Erysipeloid, unspecified?

ICD-10 Code A26.9 represents Erysipeloid, unspecified, a skin infection typically resulting from exposure to Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae. This code should be used when the specific type of erysipeloid is not identified, allowing for appropriate clinical documentation and billing. It is crucial for healthcare providers to utilize this code when diagnosing patients with symptoms consistent with erysipeloid infection.

ICD-10 Code A26.9 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Erysipeloid, unspecified

Erysipeloid, unspecified is caused by the bacterium Erysipelothrix rhusiopathiae, often contracted through handling infected animals or contaminated animal products. The condition can progress to systemic involvement if not addressed promptly, necessitating medical attention.

Key Clinical Features:

• Localized erythematous skin lesions, often on the hands or fingers.
• Possible systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise.
• History of occupational exposure to animals or animal products.
• Potential for chronic infection if untreated.

ICD-10 Code A26.9 for Erysipeloid, unspecified – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

ICD-10 Code A26.9 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plan for erysipeloid. This code is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive documentation of the patient's condition.

What Does ICD-10 Code A26.9 for Erysipeloid, unspecified Mean in SOAP Notes?

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code A26.9 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of erysipeloid. This code supports continuity of care, facilitates accurate billing, and meets EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code A26.9 – Erysipeloid, unspecified

Erysipeloid, unspecified may require hospitalization in severe cases, particularly if systemic symptoms are present. Appropriate antibiotic therapy is essential for effective management.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Penicillin G: 10-14 days.
• Amoxicillin: 10-14 days.
• Ciprofloxacin: 7-14 days (alternative).

Supportive Care:

• Pain management with NSAIDs.
• Wound care for skin lesions.
• Hydration and rest.

Infection Control:

• Use of gloves when handling animals.
• Proper sanitation of tools and surfaces.
• Monitoring for outbreaks in high-risk populations.

How to Document Symptoms of Erysipeloid, unspecified (ICD-10 A26.9) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports localized swelling and redness on the hand.
• History of handling raw meat or animal products.
• Complaints of mild fever and fatigue.
• No known allergies to antibiotics.

Objective:

• Erythematous lesion with swelling on the dorsal aspect of the hand.
• Temperature: 100.4°F.
• No lymphadenopathy noted.
• Wound appears clean with no signs of necrosis.

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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Erysipeloid, unspecified (ICD-10 Code A26.9)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Erysipeloid, unspecified, mild severity.
• ICD-10 Code: A26.9.
• Contributing factors: Occupational exposure to animal products.
• No significant comorbidities noted.

Plan:

• Initiate antibiotic therapy with Penicillin G.
• Educate patient on wound care and hygiene.
• Schedule follow-up in one week to assess response to treatment.
• Monitor for any signs of systemic infection.

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code A26.9 – Erysipeloid, unspecified

• First-line treatment includes Penicillin G or Amoxicillin.
• Encourage proper hand hygiene and wound care.
• Monitor for any signs of systemic involvement.
• Follow-up appointments to assess treatment efficacy.

Using ICD-10 Code A26.9 for Erysipeloid, unspecified in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and exposure history.
• Use A26.9 in conjunction with relevant CPT codes for billing.
• Maintain compliance with clinical guidelines for treatment.
• Document all patient interactions and treatment plans clearly.

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Erysipeloid, unspecified

• A26.0 – Erysipeloid of the hand
• A26.1 – Erysipeloid of the face
• A26.8 – Other erysipeloid
• A26.2 – Erysipeloid of the trunk

ICD-10 Code A26.9 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Erysipeloid, unspecified

ICD-10 Code A26.9 is crucial in medical billing, particularly in hospital, ER, or infectious disease care settings.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant patient history and exposure details.
• Use A26.9 in the primary diagnosis field for accurate billing.
• Ensure that treatment plans align with documented symptoms.
• Include any relevant laboratory results to support the diagnosis.

Common CPT Pairings: