Question

During an inpatient stay, a medication order for a topical ointment is noted in the physician orders. On further investigation, the coder determines that this particular ointment is prescribed for fungal infections of the skin. The history and physical report notes a reddened, foul-smelling area of the right big toe. What is reported for this condition treated with the ointment?

A. B35.3, Tinea pedis
B. R23.8, Other skin changes
C. R21, Rash and other nonspecific skin eruption
D. The coder must query the provider for a diagnosis.

Answer 1

The condition treated with the topical ointment is Tinea pedis (athlete's foot), which is characterized by itching, burning, and dry, cracked skin between the toes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition treated with the topical ointment for fungal infections of the skin is Tinea pedis (athlete's foot), which is caused by dermatophytes or Candida spp. It is characterized by itching, burning, and dry, cracked skin between the toes. The correct code to report this condition is B35.3, Tinea pedis.

The condition treated with the topical ointment is Tinea pedis (athlete's foot), which is characterized by itching, burning, and dry, cracked skin between the toes.