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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesN47.6

N47.6

Billable

Balanoposthitis

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/18/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 N47.6 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of balanoposthitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Balanoposthitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the glans penis (balanitis) and the foreskin (posthitis). It can result from various etiologies, including infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal), irritants, or underlying medical conditions such as diabetes mellitus. Symptoms typically include redness, swelling, pain, and discharge from the penis. In some cases, balanoposthitis can lead to complications such as phimosis, where the foreskin cannot be retracted, or recurrent infections. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by patient history and physical examination. Treatment often involves topical antifungal or antibacterial medications, improved hygiene, and in chronic cases, circumcision may be considered. Understanding the underlying cause is crucial for effective management, particularly in patients with comorbidities that may predispose them to recurrent episodes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes (infectious vs. non-infectious)
  • Differentiation from other penile disorders (e.g., penile dermatitis, STIs)
  • Need for comprehensive patient history to determine etiology
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting treatment

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms and treatment plans
  • Failure to specify the underlying cause of inflammation
  • Misdiagnosis due to overlapping symptoms with other conditions
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for recurrent cases

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Urology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, physical examination findings, and treatment plans must be documented. Specific attention to any underlying conditions is necessary.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with symptoms of penile inflammation, recurrent infections, or complications such as phimosis.

Billing Considerations

Urologists should ensure that any surgical interventions or referrals are well-documented to support coding.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive skin examination notes, including descriptions of lesions and any relevant history of skin conditions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with balanoposthitis presenting with skin rashes or irritations that may mimic other dermatological conditions.

Billing Considerations

Dermatologists should differentiate between balanoposthitis and other skin disorders to avoid misdiagnosis.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use N47.6 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, N47
  • 6 should be used when both the glans and foreskin are involved in the inflammatory process
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any underlying conditions are noted

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use N47.6 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

54160CPT Code

Circumcision, surgical excision of foreskin

Clinical Scenario

Performed in cases of recurrent balanoposthitis due to phimosis.

Documentation Requirements

Document the indication for surgery and any prior treatments attempted.

Specialty Considerations

Urologists should ensure that the necessity for circumcision is well-supported by clinical findings.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of balanoposthitis, improving the ability to capture the complexity of the condition and its management. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of balanoposthitis, improving the ability to capture the complexity of the condition and its management. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of balanoposthitis, improving the ability to capture the complexity of the condition and its management. This specificity aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of balanoposthitis?

Common causes include infections (bacterial, fungal), irritants (soaps, detergents), and underlying conditions like diabetes. Proper diagnosis is essential for effective treatment.

How is balanoposthitis treated?

Treatment typically involves topical medications, improved hygiene, and in chronic cases, surgical options like circumcision may be considered.