Learn about folliculitis (F), also known as hair follicle infection, barber's itch, and hot tub rash. This resource provides information on folliculitis diagnosis, clinical documentation, and medical coding for healthcare professionals. Find details on ICD-10 codes related to folliculitis, treatment options, and best practices for accurate medical record keeping.
Also known as
Other folliculitis
Inflammation of hair follicles, not elsewhere classified.
Folliculitis, unspecified
Inflammation of hair follicles, without further specification.
Pyoderma
Bacterial skin infection that may involve hair follicles like in folliculitis.
Other specified bacterial agents as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere
May be used if folliculitis is caused by a specific bacterial agent.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the folliculitis decalvans?
Yes
Code L73.82, Folliculitis decalvans
No
Is the folliculitis superficial?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Hair follicle infection, often with pus |
| Deep folliculitis, boils, carbuncles |
| Itchy rash from hot tub or pool |
Coding folliculitis without specifying the affected body area (e.g., scalp, beard) leads to claim rejections and inaccurate data.
Failing to document the cause (bacterial, fungal, etc.) affects coding accuracy and may impact treatment authorization.
Documentation must reflect the true severity (superficial vs. deep) for appropriate code assignment and reimbursement.
Q: What are the key differential diagnoses to consider when a patient presents with suspected folliculitis, and how can I differentiate them clinically?
A: When a patient presents with suspected folliculitis, several key differential diagnoses must be considered, including acne vulgaris, pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB), keratosis pilaris, furuncles and carbuncles, and tinea corporis (ringworm). Clinically differentiating these conditions involves careful examination of the lesions. Folliculitis typically presents as small, inflamed papules or pustules centered around hair follicles. Acne vulgaris, while also involving follicles, is characterized by comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and tends to occur on the face, chest, and back. PFB, commonly seen in men with curly hair, involves ingrown hairs and inflammation. Keratosis pilaris manifests as rough, bumpy skin due to keratin buildup around hair follicles, lacking the erythema and purulence seen in folliculitis. Furuncles and carbuncles are deeper, more painful infections involving hair follicles and surrounding tissue. Tinea corporis presents as an expanding, annular lesion with a raised, scaly border and central clearing. Accurate diagnosis relies on a thorough patient history, visual examination, and potentially skin scrapings or cultures for fungal infections or bacterial resistance. Consider implementing a standardized dermatological examination protocol to ensure consistent and comprehensive assessments. Explore how telehealth platforms can facilitate remote consultations and improve access to dermatological expertise for patients in remote areas.
Q: What are the most effective evidence-based treatment strategies for managing recurrent folliculitis in adults, considering both topical and systemic approaches?
A: Managing recurrent folliculitis in adults requires a multifaceted approach tailored to the individual patient. Topical treatments often form the first line of defense, including antibacterial washes like chlorhexidine or benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacterial load. Topical antibiotics such as mupirocin or clindamycin can be applied to localized lesions. For more extensive or recurrent cases, systemic antibiotics like dicloxacillin or cephalexin may be warranted. In cases of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) folliculitis, appropriate antibiotics like doxycycline or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole should be considered based on culture and sensitivity results. For patients with gram-negative folliculitis, consider Pseudomonas coverage with medications like ciprofloxacin. Non-pharmacological strategies are also important, such as avoiding tight-fitting clothing, maintaining good hygiene, and optimizing shaving techniques to minimize irritation and ingrown hairs. Learn more about the latest guidelines for antibiotic stewardship to ensure responsible prescribing practices and minimize the development of antibiotic resistance. Explore how patient education resources can empower patients to actively participate in their treatment and prevention strategies.
Patient presents with signs and symptoms consistent with folliculitis, a common skin condition characterized by inflammation of the hair follicles. The patient reports [localized/generalized] [pruritus/tenderness/burning] in the affected area(s): [location of folliculitis, e.g., face, scalp, legs, axillae]. Physical examination reveals [erythematous papules/pustules/nodules] surrounding the hair follicles. Differential diagnosis includes acne vulgaris, pseudofolliculitis barbae (PFB), furuncles, carbuncles, and bacterial or fungal infections. The patient's presentation suggests [superficial/deep] folliculitis, possibly due to [bacterial/fungal/viral] infection, [shaving/waxing/friction/occlusion/exposure to contaminated water]. Based on clinical findings, the diagnosis of folliculitis (ICD-10-CM L73.9) is confirmed. Treatment plan includes [topical antibiotics/antifungals/antivirals] such as [medication name and strength], [warm compresses], and [hygiene recommendations to prevent recurrence, e.g., avoid tight clothing, proper shaving techniques]. Patient education provided on folliculitis symptoms, treatment options, and potential complications including cellulitis or abscess formation. Follow-up appointment scheduled in [duration] to monitor response to treatment and adjust management as needed. Medical coding for folliculitis includes CPT codes for evaluation and management (E/M) services, such as [relevant CPT codes e.g., 99202-99205 for new patients and 99211-99215 for established patients], in addition to any procedural codes for incision and drainage if required. Prognosis is generally good with appropriate treatment.