Candidal intertrigo, also known as intertriginous candidiasis or yeast infection in skin folds, is a common fungal infection affecting skin folds. Learn about diagnosis, clinical documentation, and medical coding for candidal intertrigo (ICD-10 code B37.8) including treatment options and prevention strategies. This resource provides information for healthcare professionals on yeast intertrigo management and best practices.
Also known as
Candidal stomatitis
Candida infection specifically affecting the mouth.
Candidal vulvovaginitis
Candida infection of the vulva and vagina.
Other candidiasis
Candidiasis at sites not specifically coded elsewhere.
Candidiasis, unspecified
Candidiasis without specification of location.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the intertrigo confirmed to be caused by Candida?
Yes
Is there skin breakdown?
No
Do not code candidal intertrigo. Consider other intertrigo diagnoses (e.g., L30.4).
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Yeast infection in skin folds. |
| Bacterial skin fold infection. |
| Skin fold irritation, not infection. |
Coding candidal intertrigo without specifying the affected body area can lead to claim rejections. Use site-specific ICD-10 codes (e.g., B37.1, B37.8).
Lack of proper documentation to support the diagnosis of candidal intertrigo can raise audit red flags. CDI specialists should query for supporting clinical findings.
Coding candidal intertrigo as confirmed when documented as "rule out" or "suspected" is incorrect and poses compliance risks. Code based on definitive diagnosis.
Q: How to differentiate candidal intertrigo from other intertriginous dermatoses in primary care?
A: Differentiating candidal intertrigo from other intertriginous dermatoses like psoriasis, erythrasma, and contact dermatitis requires careful clinical evaluation. Candidal intertrigo typically presents as erythematous plaques with satellite papules and pustules, often with a glazed appearance, within skin folds like the axillae, groin, inframammary folds, and interdigital spaces. Psoriasis in these areas may lack the typical silvery scale and appear more as smooth, shiny plaques. Erythrasma exhibits coral-red fluorescence under a Wood's lamp, unlike candidal intertrigo. Contact dermatitis often presents with more intense pruritus and vesicles, and its distribution may correlate with allergen exposure. Microscopic examination with KOH preparation can confirm the presence of yeast in candidal intertrigo. Consider implementing a stepwise approach including patient history, visual inspection, Wood's lamp examination, and KOH microscopy for accurate diagnosis. Explore how combining clinical findings with diagnostic tests can improve diagnostic accuracy in intertriginous dermatoses.
Q: What are the most effective topical antifungal treatments for recurrent candidal intertrigo in obese patients?
A: Recurrent candidal intertrigo in obese patients presents unique challenges due to persistent skin-on-skin friction and moisture retention. Topical antifungals like nystatin, clotrimazole, ketoconazole, and econazole are effective, but adherence and proper application are crucial. Cream formulations are generally preferred over ointments in intertriginous areas due to their drying effect. For severe or resistant cases, a short course of oral fluconazole may be considered in consultation with a specialist. Addressing underlying predisposing factors like hyperhidrosis and diabetes is essential for long-term management. Explore how weight management strategies and moisture control measures can complement topical antifungal therapy to reduce recurrence rates. Learn more about strategies for optimizing topical antifungal application in obese patients to enhance treatment efficacy.
Patient presents with intertriginous candidiasis, also known as candidal intertrigo or a yeast infection in skin folds, affecting the [specify location, e.g., axilla, groin, inframammary folds]. The affected area exhibits erythema, maceration, and satellite lesions characteristic of yeast intertrigo. Patient reports [symptoms, e.g., pruritus, burning, discomfort] exacerbated by friction and moisture. Clinical examination reveals [detailed findings, e.g., well-demarcated erythematous plaques with peripheral scaling, pustules, or erosions]. Differential diagnoses considered include intertrigo, contact dermatitis, and psoriasis. Diagnosis of candidal intertrigo is based on clinical presentation and may be confirmed with potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation demonstrating pseudohyphae and budding yeast. Treatment plan includes topical antifungal therapy with [specify medication, e.g., clotrimazole, nystatin] applied twice daily for [duration]. Patient education provided on maintaining skin hygiene, keeping the area dry, and avoiding occlusive clothing. Follow-up scheduled in [timeframe] to assess treatment response and adjust management as needed. ICD-10 code B37.1 is assigned for candidiasis of skin and nails. This documentation supports medical necessity for the prescribed treatment.