ICD-10 Code B85.3 | Phthiriasis Symptoms, Diagnosis, Billing

Phthiriasis, commonly known as infestation by lice, is caused by parasitic insects that infest the human body, primarily affecting the scalp, body, and pubic areas. The clinical significance of Phthiriasis lies in its potential to cause itching, secondary infections, and social stigma. Accurate documentation and billing using ICD-10 Code B85.3 facilitate proper diagnosis, treatment planning, and public health reporting, ensuring effective management of this condition.

What is ICD-10 Code B85.3 for Phthiriasis?

ICD-10 Code B85.3 specifically denotes Phthiriasis, which refers to the infestation of the body by lice. This code is utilized in clinical documentation and billing when diagnosing patients with lice infestations, which can lead to significant discomfort and secondary complications. Proper use of this code ensures accurate representation of the condition for treatment and reimbursement purposes.

ICD-10 Code B85.3 – Clinical Definition and Explanation of Phthiriasis

Phthiriasis is caused by the infestation of lice, which are small, wingless insects that feed on human blood. The condition can lead to intense itching, skin irritation, and secondary bacterial infections if left untreated. Medical attention is necessary to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

Key Clinical Features:

• Intense itching in affected areas, particularly the scalp and pubic region.
• Visible lice or nits (eggs) on hair shafts or skin.
• Skin irritation or rash due to scratching.
• Potential for secondary bacterial infections.

ICD-10 Code B85.3 for Phthiriasis – SOAP Notes & Clinical Use

In SOAP notes, ICD-10 Code B85.3 is essential for documenting the presence of lice infestation. It aids in the assessment of symptoms, guiding treatment decisions, and ensuring accurate billing in both acute and chronic care settings.

What Does ICD-10 Code B85.3 for Phthiriasis Mean in SOAP Notes?

ICD-10 Code B85.3 connects subjective patient-reported symptoms and objective clinical findings to a formal diagnosis of Phthiriasis. This code is crucial for ensuring continuity of care, supporting accurate billing, and meeting EHR documentation standards.

Treatment Options for ICD-10 Code B85.3 – Phthiriasis

Phthiriasis requires prompt treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Effective management often involves both pharmacological and supportive measures.

Antibiotic Therapy:

• Permethrin 1% cream rinse applied to affected areas for 10 minutes.
• Malathion 0.5% lotion applied to dry hair and left for 8-12 hours.
• Ivermectin 0.5% lotion as an alternative for resistant cases.

Supportive Care:

• Regular washing of clothing and bedding in hot water.
• Combing hair with a fine-toothed comb to remove nits.
• Avoiding close contact with others until treatment is completed.

Infection Control:

• Educating patients on lice transmission and prevention.
• Implementing measures to prevent outbreaks in communal settings.
• Encouraging reporting of infestations to public health authorities.

How to Document Symptoms of Phthiriasis (ICD-10 B85.3) in SOAP Notes

Subjective:

• Patient reports severe itching in the scalp and pubic area.
• History of close contact with individuals diagnosed with lice.
• Complaints of skin irritation and discomfort due to scratching.

Objective:

• Visible lice and nits found on scalp and hair shafts.
• Erythema and excoriation noted on the skin.
• No signs of secondary bacterial infection observed.

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SOAP Note Guidelines for Diagnosing Phthiriasis (ICD-10 Code B85.3)

Assessment:

• Diagnosis: Phthiriasis (lice infestation), mild severity.
• ICD-10 Code: B85.3.
• Contributing factors: Close contact with infested individuals.

Plan:

• Initiate treatment with permethrin 1% cream rinse.
• Educate patient on proper application and follow-up care.
• Schedule follow-up appointment in one week to assess treatment efficacy.

Treatment & Plan Section for ICD-10 Code B85.3 – Phthiriasis

• First-line treatment with topical insecticides such as permethrin.
• Non-pharmacologic strategies including thorough cleaning of personal items.
• Monitoring for treatment effectiveness and potential reinfestation.
• Patient education on prevention and management of lice.

Using ICD-10 Code B85.3 for Phthiriasis in Billing & SOAP Note Compliance

• Select appropriate ICD-10 code based on clinical findings and documentation.
• Ensure Subjective (S) and Objective (O) sections clearly reflect symptoms and findings.
• Align treatment plans with clinical guidelines to support justified billing.
• Include relevant CPT codes for services rendered during the visit.

Related ICD-10 Codes Often Used with Phthiriasis

• B85.0 – Pediculosis capitis (head lice)
• B85.1 – Pediculosis corporis (body lice)
• B85.2 – Pediculosis pubis (pubic lice)

ICD-10 Code B85.3 in Medical Billing and Insurance for Phthiriasis

ICD-10 Code B85.3 is critical in medical billing, particularly in hospital, ER, or infectious disease care settings.

Billing Notes:

• Document all relevant patient history and clinical findings to support the ICD-10 claim.
• Use the code in conjunction with appropriate CPT codes for services provided.
• Ensure documentation reflects the severity and treatment plan for accurate reimbursement.

Common CPT Pairings: