ICD-10 Guide

B08.22

Exanthema subitum [sixth disease] due to human herpesvirus 7

BILLABLE STATUSYes

IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015

LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 B08.22 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of exanthema subitum [sixth disease] due to human herpesvirus 7.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Exanthema subitum, commonly known as sixth disease, is a viral infection primarily affecting infants and young children, typically between the ages of 6 months and 2 years. It is caused by human herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7), although human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) is also a known causative agent. The condition is characterized by a sudden high fever lasting 3 to 5 days, followed by the appearance of a distinctive rash once the fever subsides. The rash usually starts on the trunk and then spreads to the face and extremities, appearing as small, pink spots. While exanthema subitum is generally self-limiting and resolves without complications, it can occasionally lead to febrile seizures in susceptible children due to the rapid rise in temperature. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic fever and rash pattern, and laboratory testing is rarely necessary. Treatment is supportive, focusing on fever management and hydration. Vaccination against HHV-7 is not currently available, and preventive measures primarily involve good hygiene practices to limit transmission.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

Clear clinical presentation with characteristic symptoms
Limited need for laboratory confirmation
Self-limiting nature of the disease
No specific treatment guidelines complicating coding

Audit Risk Factors

Misdiagnosis with other viral exanthems
Inadequate documentation of fever duration
Failure to note the absence of complications
Incorrect linkage to other codes for febrile seizures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of fever and rash, including onset and duration.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Infants presenting with sudden fever followed by rash.

Billing Considerations

Ensure to document any associated symptoms like irritability or seizures.

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Clinical evaluation and any relevant lab tests if performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Consultations for atypical presentations or complications.

Billing Considerations

Document differential diagnoses to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B08.22 When

According to ICD
10 guidelines, B08
22 should be used when the condition is confirmed or strongly suspected based on clinical presentation
It is important to document the absence of other viral infections

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B08.22 When

No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits after diagnosis of B08.22.

Documentation Requirements

Document history of present illness, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Pediatricians should ensure thorough documentation of growth and development.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of viral infections like B08.22, improving data accuracy and enhancing epidemiological tracking of diseases.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of viral infections like B08.22, improving data accuracy and enhancing epidemiological tracking of diseases.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of viral infections like B08.22, improving data accuracy and enhancing epidemiological tracking of diseases.

Resources

Clinical References

•
CDC - Sixth Disease (Exanthema Subitum)

Coding & Billing References

•
CDC - Sixth Disease (Exanthema Subitum)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical age range for exanthema subitum?

Exanthema subitum typically affects infants and young children aged 6 months to 2 years.

Is there a vaccine for exanthema subitum?

Currently, there is no vaccine available for exanthema subitum caused by HHV-7.

What are the common complications associated with exanthema subitum?

The most common complication is febrile seizures, which can occur due to the rapid rise in fever.

ICD-10 B08.22 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of exanthema subitum [sixth disease] due to human herpesvirus 7.