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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesB01.89

B01.89

Other varicella complications

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 B01.89 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other varicella complications.

Key Diagnostic Point:

B01.89 refers to complications arising from varicella (chickenpox) that do not fall under the more common categories of complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis. These complications can include secondary bacterial infections, thrombocytopenia, and other systemic manifestations that may arise in immunocompromised patients or those with atypical presentations. Varicella is caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), and while most cases are mild, complications can lead to significant morbidity. The risk of complications increases in adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination against varicella has significantly reduced the incidence of the disease and its complications, but breakthrough infections can still occur, leading to atypical presentations and complications that require careful documentation and coding. Accurate coding of these complications is essential for appropriate treatment and management, as well as for tracking epidemiological data related to varicella and its complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential complications that can be coded under this category
  • Need for precise documentation to differentiate between complications
  • Potential overlap with other viral infections and their complications
  • Variability in clinical presentation based on patient demographics

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of complications
  • Misclassification of complications as primary diagnoses
  • Failure to capture vaccination status impacting the severity of complications
  • Inconsistent coding practices across different healthcare settings

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the patient's history, vaccination status, and specific complications observed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with atypical varicella symptoms or complications post-vaccination.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of immunocompromised status and its impact on complication severity.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Thorough documentation of vaccination history, clinical presentation, and any complications noted during follow-up.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with varicella and subsequent complications such as skin infections or thrombocytopenia.

Billing Considerations

Awareness of the age of the child and the implications of vaccination status on the disease course.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B01.89 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, B01
  • 89 should be used when specific complications of varicella are documented that do not fit into other defined categories
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that all relevant complications are captured

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B01.89 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

99214CPT Code

Established patient office visit, level 4

Clinical Scenario

Used when managing a patient with varicella complications in an outpatient setting.

Documentation Requirements

Document the complexity of the visit and any complications addressed.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatricians should note vaccination history and any complications.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of varicella complications, improving the accuracy of epidemiological data and treatment management. B01.89 captures a broader range of complications that were previously less defined in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of varicella complications, improving the accuracy of epidemiological data and treatment management. B01.89 captures a broader range of complications that were previously less defined in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of varicella complications, improving the accuracy of epidemiological data and treatment management. B01.89 captures a broader range of complications that were previously less defined in ICD-9.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Varicella Information

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Varicella Information

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common complications associated with varicella?

Common complications include secondary bacterial infections, pneumonia, encephalitis, and thrombocytopenia. B01.89 is used for complications that do not fit into these specific categories.

How does vaccination affect the coding of varicella complications?

Vaccination can lead to milder cases and atypical presentations, which may complicate coding. It is essential to document vaccination status to accurately code complications.