Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete's foot, is a fungal infection affecting the skin of the feet, particularly between the toes. It is caused by dermatophyte fungi and is clinically significant due to its potential to cause discomfort, secondary bacterial infections, and complications in immunocompromised patients. Accurate coding with ICD-10 Code B35.3 facilitates proper diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting.
What is ICD-10 Code B35.3 for Tinea pedis?
ICD-10 Code B35.3 represents Tinea pedis, a dermatophyte infection of the foot characterized by itching, burning, and scaling. This code is used in clinical documentation and billing when diagnosing patients with this condition, ensuring accurate representation of the patient's health status and facilitating appropriate treatment and reimbursement.
ICD-10 Code B35.3 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Tinea pedis
Tinea pedis is primarily caused by dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moist environments. The condition can progress to involve the entire foot, leading to significant discomfort and potential complications if left untreated. Medical attention is necessary to prevent secondary infections and to manage symptoms effectively.
Key Clinical Features:
- Itching and burning sensation between the toes
- Scaling and peeling of the skin
- Redness and inflammation
- Possible secondary bacterial infection
ICD-10 Code B35.3 for Tinea pedis – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use
In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code B35.3 is utilized to document the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plans related to Tinea pedis. This code is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive documentation of the patient's condition.
What Does ICD-10 Code B35.3 for Tinea pedis Mean in SOAP Notes?
ICD-10 Code B35.3 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of Tinea pedis. This code is essential for ensuring continuity of care, supporting billing processes, and meeting EHR documentation standards.
Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code B35.3 – Tinea pedis
Tinea pedis requires prompt treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Antibiotic Therapy:
- Topical antifungals (e.g., clotrimazole, miconazole) for 2-4 weeks
- Oral antifungals (e.g., terbinafine, itraconazole) for 2-6 weeks if severe
Supportive Care:
- Keep feet dry and clean
- Use antifungal powders or sprays
- Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas
Infection Control:
- Educate patients on hygiene practices
- Encourage use of personal footwear in shared spaces
- Monitor for signs of secondary infections
How to Document Symptoms of Tinea pedis (ICD-10 B35.3) in SOAP Notes
Subjective:
- Patient reports itching and burning between toes
- History of athlete's foot in the past
- Symptoms worsen with moisture exposure
Objective:
- Erythema and scaling noted between the 3rd and 4th toes
- No signs of secondary bacterial infection
- Skin appears macerated in affected areas
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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Tinea pedis (ICD-10 Code B35.3)
Assessment:
- Diagnosis: Tinea pedis, mild to moderate severity
- ICD-10 Code: B35.3
- Contributing factors: Moisture exposure, history of fungal infections
Plan:
- Initiate topical antifungal treatment
- Educate on foot hygiene and moisture control
- Schedule follow-up in 2 weeks to assess treatment efficacy
Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code B35.3 – Tinea pedis
- First-line treatment includes topical antifungals
- Encourage lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence
- Monitor for treatment response and potential complications
- Educate on proper foot hygiene practices
Using ICD-10 Code B35.3 for Tinea pedis in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance
- Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and treatment plans
- Use B35.3 in appropriate clinical settings for billing
- Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines to support justified billing
- Document any comorbid conditions that may affect treatment
Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Tinea pedis
- B35.0 – Tinea corporis
- B35.1 – Tinea cruris
ICD-10 Code B35.3 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Tinea pedis
ICD-10 Code B35.3 is crucial for billing in hospital, ER, or infectious disease care settings.
Billing Notes:
- Document all relevant symptoms and treatment details
- Use B35.3 in conjunction with other codes for comprehensive billing
- Ensure compliance with payer requirements for documentation
Common CPT Pairings:
| CPT Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 99213 | Established patient office visit, Level 3 |
| 11720 | Debridement of nail(s) (if applicable) |
| 11730 | Treatment of ingrown toenail (if applicable) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions About Using ICD-10 Code B35.3 for Tinea pedis
What are the common symptoms of Tinea pedis?
Common symptoms include itching, burning, and scaling of the skin between the toes, along with redness and possible peeling. Patients may also experience discomfort when wearing shoes.
How is Tinea pedis treated?
Tinea pedis is typically treated with topical antifungal medications. In severe cases, oral antifungals may be prescribed. Maintaining foot hygiene is also crucial to prevent recurrence.
Is Tinea pedis contagious?
Yes, Tinea pedis is contagious and can spread through direct contact or by sharing contaminated surfaces, such as floors in locker rooms or swimming pools.
When should I seek medical attention for Tinea pedis?
Medical attention should be sought if symptoms worsen, if there is no improvement with over-the-counter treatments, or if signs of a secondary infection develop, such as increased redness or pus.
