2025 ICD-10-CM code L01.03
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue - Impetigo Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (L00-L99) Feed
Bullous impetigo is a superficial bacterial skin infection characterized by fluid-filled blisters that rupture, leaving crusted erosions.
Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the encounter.Consult official coding guidelines and payer-specific instructions for details.
Medical necessity for treatment of bullous impetigo is established by the presence of the characteristic clinical presentation and potential for complications.Antibiotic treatment is necessary to prevent spread of infection and potentially more serious conditions like staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome.
Diagnosis and treatment of bullous impetigo are typically the responsibility of pediatricians, family practitioners, or dermatologists.Treatment may involve topical or systemic antibiotics.
In simple words: Bullous impetigo is a skin infection in babies and children that causes blisters.These blisters burst, leaving behind sores that form crusts. It's contagious and spreads through touch.Most cases are mild and heal within a few weeks, but sometimes it can lead to more serious problems.
Bullous impetigo is a contagious superficial bacterial infection primarily affecting infants and children. It's caused by Staphylococcus aureus, specifically phage group II strains producing exfoliative toxins A and B.These toxins cleave desmoglein 1, leading to the formation of flaccid bullae (blisters) that rupture, resulting in superficial erosions covered by a honey-colored crust.Commonly, the face, trunk, and extremities are affected, particularly moist intertriginous areas like the axillae, neck, and diaper area. While typically mild, it can rarely progress to staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome or more serious infections like osteomyelitis, septic arthritis, pneumonia, and septicemia.The infection spreads through direct contact with colonized or infected individuals.Resolution usually occurs within 2-6 weeks.
Example 1: A 6-month-old infant presents with multiple flaccid blisters on the face and trunk.The blisters rupture easily, leaving behind honey-colored crusts.Diagnosis of bullous impetigo is made based on clinical presentation and confirmed with culture., A 2-year-old child with a history of atopic dermatitis develops widespread bullous impetigo. This case requires aggressive treatment with systemic antibiotics to prevent complications., A neonate in a nursery shows signs of bullous impetigo. Immediate isolation and treatment with appropriate antibiotics are initiated to prevent spread to other infants.
Detailed clinical history including age of onset and symptoms. Physical examination findings should describe the location, size, and appearance of the lesions.Microscopic examination of skin scrapings or culture results for Staphylococcus aureus are essential for definitive diagnosis.Details on treatment prescribed and response are also required.
** Disseminated bullous impetigo is more severe and may require systemic antibiotic therapy.Always consider the potential for complications, especially in immunocompromised patients.Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for resolution and potential complications.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Pediatrics, Family Medicine, Dermatology
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Urgent Care Facility