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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesB08.09

B08.09

Other orthopoxvirus infections

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

Code Description

ICD-10 B08.09 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other orthopoxvirus infections.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Other orthopoxvirus infections refer to a group of viral infections caused by various members of the Orthopoxvirus genus, excluding variola virus (which causes smallpox) and vaccinia virus (used in the smallpox vaccine). Common orthopoxvirus infections include monkeypox and cowpox. These infections can present with symptoms such as fever, malaise, and characteristic skin lesions that progress from macules to papules and vesicles, eventually forming pustules and crusts. Transmission typically occurs through direct contact with infected animals or humans, or through contaminated materials. Vaccination against smallpox provides some cross-protection against other orthopoxviruses, but the effectiveness can vary. Complications can include secondary bacterial infections, scarring, and in severe cases, systemic involvement leading to complications such as pneumonia or encephalitis. The clinical management of these infections often involves supportive care, and in some cases, antiviral treatments may be indicated.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of orthopoxviruses with differing clinical presentations
  • Need for accurate patient history to determine exposure
  • Differentiation from other viral infections with similar symptoms
  • Potential for co-infections that complicate diagnosis

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to document vaccination history
  • Misclassification of the specific orthopoxvirus infection
  • Lack of clarity in patient exposure history

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, including exposure and vaccination status, clinical findings, and laboratory results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis of monkeypox in patients with recent travel to endemic areas, or exposure to infected animals.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of differential diagnoses and potential for co-infections.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Photographic evidence of skin lesions, detailed descriptions of lesion progression, and patient history.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of skin lesions suspected to be caused by orthopoxvirus infections.

Billing Considerations

Differentiating between orthopoxvirus lesions and other dermatological conditions.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B08.09 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, B08
  • 09 should be used when the specific orthopoxvirus infection is not classified elsewhere
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any related conditions are also coded appropriately

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B08.09 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

87593CPT Code

Infectious agent detection by nucleic acid (DNA or RNA); orthopoxvirus

Clinical Scenario

Used when laboratory confirmation of orthopoxvirus infection is required.

Documentation Requirements

Laboratory results must be documented and linked to the diagnosis.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists should ensure accurate coding based on lab findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of orthopoxvirus infections, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of these infections in public health.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of orthopoxvirus infections, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of these infections in public health.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of orthopoxvirus infections, improving data accuracy and facilitating better tracking of these infections in public health.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC - Orthopoxvirus Infections

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC - Orthopoxvirus Infections

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common symptoms of orthopoxvirus infections?

Common symptoms include fever, malaise, and a characteristic rash that progresses through stages from macules to vesicles and pustules.

How is orthopoxvirus infection diagnosed?

Diagnosis is typically made based on clinical presentation, exposure history, and confirmed through laboratory testing such as PCR.