ICD-10 Code B01.81 | Varicella keratitis Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Varicella keratitis is an ocular complication of varicella-zoster virus (VZV) infection, characterized by inflammation of the cornea. It can lead to significant visual impairment if not promptly diagnosed and treated. The ICD-10 Code B01.81 facilitates accurate diagnosis, documentation, and billing, ensuring proper management of this condition and aiding in public health reporting.

What is ICD-10 Code B01.81 for Varicella keratitis?

ICD-10 Code B01.81 specifically denotes Varicella keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea due to the varicella-zoster virus. This code is utilized in clinical documentation and billing when a patient presents with ocular symptoms related to a history of varicella infection, ensuring appropriate treatment and follow-up.

ICD-10 Code B01.81 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Varicella keratitis

Varicella keratitis is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, leading to corneal inflammation. It can progress rapidly, resulting in complications such as corneal scarring and vision loss, necessitating immediate medical attention.

Key Clinical Features:

• Corneal pain and redness
• Photophobia
• Decreased visual acuity
• Dendritic ulcers on the cornea

ICD-10 Code B01.81 for Varicella keratitis – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code B01.81 is essential for documenting the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plans. It is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive patient management.

What Does ICD-10 Code B01.81 for Varicella keratitis Mean in SOAP Notes?

ICD-10 Code B01.81 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of Varicella keratitis. This code supports continuity of care, facilitates billing, and meets EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code B01.81 – Varicella keratitis

Varicella keratitis requires prompt treatment to prevent complications. Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Acyclovir 400 mg orally five times daily for 7-10 days
• Valacyclovir 1 g orally three times daily for 7-10 days
• Topical antiviral therapy may be considered
• Consider alternative antivirals based on patient tolerance

Supportive Care:

• Artificial tears to relieve dryness
• Pain management with NSAIDs
• Frequent follow-up to monitor corneal healing
• Education on hygiene to prevent secondary infections

Infection Control:

• Isolate patients during acute infection
• Educate on hand hygiene and avoiding contact with others
• Monitor for signs of secondary bacterial infection
• Implement precautions during outbreaks

How to Document Symptoms of Varicella keratitis (ICD-10 B01.81) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports eye pain and redness
• Complains of increased sensitivity to light
• History of varicella infection confirmed
• Noted decreased vision in affected eye

Objective:

• Corneal examination reveals dendritic ulcers
• Visual acuity testing shows reduced vision
• Intraocular pressure within normal limits
• No signs of anterior chamber inflammation

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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Varicella keratitis (ICD-10 Code B01.81)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Varicella keratitis, moderate severity
• ICD-10 Code: B01.81
• Contributing factors: Recent varicella infection
• Potential triggers: Immunocompromised state

Plan:

• Initiate antiviral therapy with Acyclovir
• Schedule follow-up in 1 week to assess corneal healing
• Educate patient on symptom management and hygiene
• Consider referral to ophthalmology if no improvement

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code B01.81 – Varicella keratitis

• First-line treatment includes antiviral medications such as Acyclovir or Valacyclovir.
• Non-pharmacologic strategies include the use of artificial tears and pain management.
• Monitoring should include regular visual acuity assessments and corneal examinations.
• Follow-up practices should involve reassessment of symptoms and treatment efficacy.

Using ICD-10 Code B01.81 for Varicella keratitis in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Select appropriate ICD-10 code based on clinical findings and documentation.
• Ensure subjective and objective findings are clearly documented in SOAP notes.
• Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines to support justified billing.
• Commonly billed CPT codes should reflect the services provided for the diagnosis.

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Varicella keratitis

• B01.0 – Varicella (chickenpox)
• B01.81 – Varicella keratitis
• B01.89 – Other complications of varicella

ICD-10 Code B01.81 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Varicella keratitis

ICD-10 Code B01.81 is crucial for accurate billing in hospital, ER, or infectious disease care settings.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant patient history and symptoms to support the ICD-10 claim.
• Use the code in conjunction with appropriate CPT codes for services rendered.
• Ensure that the diagnosis is clearly linked to the treatment provided in the medical record.
• Review payer-specific guidelines for documentation requirements.

Common CPT Pairings: