Find comprehensive information on Vulvovaginal Candidiasis diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding, ICD-10 codes (B37.3), and SNOMED CT concepts. This resource covers yeast infection diagnosis, Candida albicans, treatment options, and best practices for healthcare professionals. Learn about differential diagnosis, signs and symptoms, laboratory testing, and patient education for Vulvovaginal Candidiasis. Improve your clinical documentation and medical coding accuracy with this essential guide.
Also known as
Candidiasis of vulva and vagina
Yeast infection of the vulva and vagina.
Candidiasis
Infections caused by the yeast Candida.
Mycoses
Diseases caused by fungal infections.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the Vulvovaginal Candidiasis uncomplicated?
Yes
Code B37.3
No
Is it recurrent?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Vulvovaginal Candidiasis |
| Bacterial Vaginosis |
| Trichomoniasis |
Coding B37.3 (Candidiasis, unspecified) instead of B37.4 (Vulvovaginal candidiasis) when clinical documentation supports the latter, leading to inaccurate reporting and potential underpayment.
Diagnosing vulvovaginal candidiasis without sufficient clinical evidence (e.g., microscopy, culture) increases the risk of inaccurate coding and impacts quality metrics and reimbursement.
Failing to capture and code related conditions like diabetes or immunosuppression, which can influence treatment and severity, affecting risk adjustment and resource allocation.
Q: What are the most effective differential diagnosis strategies for distinguishing Vulvovaginal Candidiasis from other vulvovaginitis etiologies in a primary care setting?
A: Differentiating Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (VVC) from other vulvovaginitis etiologies like Bacterial Vaginosis (BV) or Trichomoniasis requires a multifaceted approach. Clinicians should consider a combination of patient history (including sexual history, hygiene practices, and recent antibiotic use), physical examination findings (such as the presence of characteristic discharge, vulvar erythema, and satellite lesions), and point-of-care testing. Microscopic examination of a wet mount preparation with saline and 10% KOH can reveal fungal elements (hyphae, pseudohyphae, or budding yeast) indicative of VVC. The whiff test and assessment of vaginal pH can further aid in distinguishing BV (fishy odor, pH > 4.5) from VVC (normal or slightly acidic pH). If microscopic evaluation is inconclusive or unavailable, consider using a rapid diagnostic test for VVC or sending vaginal swabs for culture and sensitivity testing. Explore how incorporating a standardized vulvovaginitis assessment protocol can enhance diagnostic accuracy in your practice.
Q: How do current treatment guidelines recommend managing recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis episodes in non-pregnant adult patients, and what emerging therapies are being explored?
A: Current guidelines for managing recurrent Vulvovaginal Candidiasis (RVVC), defined as four or more episodes in one year, emphasize long-term antifungal maintenance therapy following an initial intensive treatment phase. Fluconazole 150 mg orally weekly for 6 months is a commonly recommended regimen. Other options include topical azoles administered intermittently or intravaginally. Non-pharmacological strategies, such as avoiding irritants, wearing breathable underwear, and optimizing glycemic control in diabetic patients, should also be addressed. Emerging therapies for RVVC include antifungal vaccines, novel azole formulations, and exploring the role of the microbiome in RVVC pathogenesis. Consider implementing a patient-centered approach that combines antifungal therapy with lifestyle modifications to address individual risk factors and improve treatment outcomes. Learn more about the latest research on RVVC management strategies and emerging therapeutic options.
SUBJECTIVE: Patient presents complaining of vulvar itching, burning, and irritation. She reports thick, white, cottage cheese-like vaginal discharge. Symptoms have been present for approximately three days and are worse after intercourse. She denies fever, chills, abdominal pain, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. Past medical history includes recurrent yeast infections. Current medications include an oral contraceptive. Allergies include penicillin. Social history is negative for tobacco use. Patient reports occasional alcohol consumption and denies illicit drug use. OBJECTIVE: External genitalia examination reveals erythema and edema of the vulva and labia. Speculum examination reveals thick, white, adherent discharge in the vaginal vault. Vaginal pH is 4.0. Wet mount microscopy reveals pseudohyphae and budding yeast consistent with Candida albicans. No cervical motion tenderness or adnexal masses noted. ASSESSMENT: Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), also known as a yeast infection. Differential diagnosis includes bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis, and allergic vulvovaginitis. Diagnosis confirmed by microscopic examination. PLAN: Patient educated on the diagnosis of vulvovaginal candidiasis, risk factors, and preventive measures. Prescribed Fluconazole 150mg oral tablet, single dose. Patient advised to avoid douching, wear cotton underwear, and avoid tight-fitting clothing. Follow-up recommended if symptoms do not resolve within one week. ICD-10 code B37.3. Patient counseling provided regarding medication administration and potential side effects.