ICD-10 Guide

B37.89

Other sites of candidiasis

BILLABLE STATUSYes

IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015

LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 B37.89 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other sites of candidiasis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is caused by the overgrowth of Candida species, particularly Candida albicans. While it is most frequently associated with mucosal infections such as oral thrush and vaginal candidiasis, it can also occur in other sites of the body, particularly in immunocompromised patients. These infections can manifest in various forms, including cutaneous candidiasis, candidemia, and invasive candidiasis affecting organs such as the lungs, kidneys, and heart. The risk of developing candidiasis increases significantly in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, and patients on long-term corticosteroid therapy. Symptoms may vary depending on the site of infection but often include localized pain, swelling, and discharge. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation and laboratory tests, including cultures and histopathological examination. Treatment usually involves antifungal medications, such as fluconazole, itraconazole, or amphotericin B, depending on the severity and location of the infection. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications, especially in immunocompromised patients.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

Variety of potential sites of infection complicating documentation.
Differentiation from other fungal infections.
Need for detailed patient history regarding immunocompromised status.
Variability in treatment protocols based on infection severity and site.

Audit Risk Factors

Inadequate documentation of the specific site of infection.
Failure to note the patient's immunocompromised status.
Misclassification of candidiasis type.
Lack of supporting lab results or clinical findings.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the site of infection, patient history, and treatment response.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with systemic symptoms and a history of immunosuppression.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant lab results and treatment plans are documented to support coding.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Clear descriptions of skin lesions and any associated symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with cutaneous candidiasis presenting with rashes or lesions.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent and location of skin involvement for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B37.89 When

According to ICD
10 coding guidelines, B37
89 should be used when candidiasis is diagnosed at sites other than those specifically listed in other codes
It is essential to document the specific site of infection and any underlying conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B37.89 When

No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

87591CPT Code

Candidiasis culture

Clinical Scenario

When a culture is performed to confirm candidiasis diagnosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for the culture and the site from which it was taken.

Specialty Considerations

Infectious disease specialists should ensure comprehensive documentation of the patient's history.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of candidiasis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of candidiasis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

•
CDC - Candidiasis

Coding & Billing References

•
CDC - Candidiasis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common sites for candidiasis coded under B37.89?

Common sites include the skin, lungs, and other organs not specified in other candidiasis codes.

ICD-10 B37.89 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other sites of candidiasis.