ICD-10 Code B37.84 | Candidal otitis externa Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Candidal otitis externa is an infection of the outer ear canal caused by Candida species, commonly occurring in individuals with moisture retention in the ear. It is clinically significant due to its potential to cause discomfort, itching, and inflammation, leading to complications if untreated. The ICD-10 Code B37.84 facilitates accurate diagnosis, documentation, medical billing, and public health reporting, ensuring proper management of this condition.

What is ICD-10 Code B37.84 for Candidal otitis externa?

ICD-10 Code B37.84 represents Candidal otitis externa, an infection characterized by inflammation of the outer ear canal due to Candida species. This code should be used in clinical documentation and billing when diagnosing patients with this specific fungal infection, particularly in cases where there is a history of moisture exposure or immunocompromised status.

ICD-10 Code B37.84 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Candidal otitis externa

Candidal otitis externa is primarily caused by an overgrowth of Candida species in the ear canal, often exacerbated by moisture, trauma, or underlying skin conditions. It requires medical attention to prevent complications such as secondary bacterial infections or chronic ear problems.

Key Clinical Features:

• Itching and discomfort in the ear canal
• Redness and swelling of the ear canal
• Discharge that may be white or yellowish
• History of moisture exposure or recent antibiotic use

ICD-10 Code B37.84 for Candidal otitis externa – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

ICD-10 Code B37.84 is utilized in SOAP notes to document the patient's symptoms, assessment findings, and treatment plan for Candidal otitis externa. It is relevant in both acute and chronic care settings, ensuring comprehensive documentation of the patient's condition.

What Does ICD-10 Code B37.84 for Candidal otitis externa Mean in SOAP Notes?

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code B37.84 connects subjective reports of ear discomfort and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of Candidal otitis externa. This code supports continuity of care, facilitates accurate billing, and meets EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code B37.84 – Candidal otitis externa

Candidal otitis externa may require hospitalization if severe symptoms or complications arise. Treatment typically involves antifungal therapy and supportive care.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Topical antifungal agents (e.g., clotrimazole) for 1-2 weeks
• Oral antifungal agents (e.g., fluconazole) for severe cases
• Consideration of alternative antifungals if resistance is suspected

Supportive Care:

• Keep the ear dry and clean
• Avoid inserting objects into the ear canal
• Use warm compresses to alleviate discomfort

Infection Control:

• Educate patients on hygiene practices
• Avoid sharing personal items like earplugs or headphones
• Monitor for signs of secondary bacterial infection

How to Document Symptoms of Candidal otitis externa (ICD-10 B37.84) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports itching and discomfort in the ear
• History of recent swimming or moisture exposure
• Complaints of yellowish discharge from the ear
• No significant pain reported

Objective:

• Erythema and edema observed in the ear canal
• Presence of white, cheesy discharge
• No perforation of the tympanic membrane noted
• Normal hearing acuity on examination

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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Candidal otitis externa (ICD-10 Code B37.84)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Candidal otitis externa, mild severity
• ICD-10 Code: B37.84
• Contributing factors: Recent swimming, history of eczema
• No signs of acute bacterial infection noted

Plan:

• Initiate topical antifungal treatment
• Educate patient on ear care and hygiene
• Schedule follow-up in one week to assess treatment response
• Monitor for any signs of worsening symptoms

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code B37.84 – Candidal otitis externa

• First-line treatment includes topical antifungals like clotrimazole
• Non-pharmacologic strategies include keeping the ear dry and avoiding moisture
• Monitor treatment response with follow-up appointments
• Educate on prevention strategies to avoid recurrence

Using ICD-10 Code B37.84 for Candidal otitis externa in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Ensure accurate documentation of symptoms and treatment plans
• Use B37.84 in appropriate clinical settings, including outpatient and inpatient
• Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines for justified billing
• Include relevant CPT codes that correspond with the services provided

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Candidal otitis externa

• B37.83 – Candidal dermatitis
• B37.89 – Other candidiasis

ICD-10 Code B37.84 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Candidal otitis externa

ICD-10 Code B37.84 is crucial for billing in hospital, ER, or infectious disease care settings, ensuring accurate reimbursement for services rendered.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant patient history and symptoms clearly
• Use B37.84 in conjunction with appropriate clinical findings
• Ensure compliance with payer requirements for documentation
• Include detailed treatment plans to support claims

Common CPT Pairings: