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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesB38.1

B38.1

Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 B38.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis (CMC) is a rare, persistent fungal infection characterized by the overgrowth of Candida species, primarily Candida albicans, affecting the skin, nails, and mucous membranes. This condition is often associated with underlying immunological defects, particularly in patients with T-cell dysfunction, leading to recurrent and severe infections. CMC manifests as white patches in the oral cavity (oral thrush), chronic dermatitis, and nail infections, which can significantly impact the quality of life. Patients may experience discomfort, pain, and secondary bacterial infections due to skin breakdown. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical evaluation and laboratory tests, including culture and sensitivity testing of the Candida species. Treatment involves systemic antifungal therapy, such as fluconazole or itraconazole, and may require long-term management to prevent recurrences. In immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, the risk of CMC is heightened, necessitating vigilant monitoring and aggressive treatment strategies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Requires understanding of immunocompromised states and their impact on fungal infections.
  • Differentiation from other fungal infections and conditions.
  • Need for accurate documentation of underlying causes and comorbidities.
  • Potential for chronicity and recurrence complicating treatment coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of immunocompromised status.
  • Failure to document chronicity of the condition.
  • Misclassification of acute versus chronic infections.
  • Lack of specificity in the type of Candida infection.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history of recurrent infections, immunological assessments, and treatment responses.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with recurrent oral thrush, skin infections, or nail candidiasis.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of any underlying immunosuppressive conditions is crucial for accurate coding.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Clinical notes detailing skin manifestations, treatment plans, and follow-up assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with chronic dermatitis or nail infections attributed to Candida.

Billing Considerations

Accurate description of skin lesions and response to antifungal treatments is necessary.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B38.1 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, B38
  • 1 should be used when documenting chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis specifically
  • It is important to include any relevant underlying conditions that may contribute to the patient's immunocompromised status

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B38.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

87591CPT Code

Candidiasis culture

Clinical Scenario

Used when laboratory confirmation of Candida infection is needed.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the culture and any previous treatment history.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists may require more detailed lab results.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis, improving the accuracy of patient records and treatment plans. This specificity aids in better tracking of patient outcomes and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC - Fungal Diseases

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC - Fungal Diseases

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis?

Common symptoms include persistent oral thrush, chronic skin rashes, and nail infections. Patients may also experience discomfort and pain in affected areas.

How is chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis treated?

Treatment typically involves systemic antifungal medications such as fluconazole or itraconazole, along with topical treatments for localized infections.

Who is at risk for developing chronic mucocutaneous candidiasis?

Individuals with immunocompromised conditions, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or undergoing immunosuppressive therapy, are at higher risk.