2025 ICD-10-CM code T33
(Valid) Effective Date: N/A Injury, poisoning and certain other consequences of external causes - Frostbite 19 Feed
Superficial frostbite. Includes: frostbite with partial thickness skin loss.
Medical necessity for the treatment of frostbite is established by the diagnosis itself.The severity and location of the frostbite will determine the specific treatment required.
Clinicians should document the location and severity of the frostbite, along with any associated symptoms.Treatment may involve rewarming the affected area, pain management, and wound care if blisters or skin damage are present.
In simple words: Mild frostbite that affects the surface of the skin.
Superficial frostbite involving partial thickness skin loss.
Example 1: A patient presents with superficial frostbite on their fingers after prolonged exposure to cold weather. The skin is pale and numb, but no blisters or deep tissue damage are present. Code T33 is used., A skier develops superficial frostbite on their nose and cheeks after a day on the slopes. The affected area is slightly red and swollen. Code T33 is used., A hiker experiences superficial frostbite on their toes after walking in freezing temperatures with wet socks. The skin is cold and waxy, but there is no deep tissue damage. Code T33 is used.
Documentation should include the location and severity of frostbite (superficial), the cause of the frostbite (e.g., exposure to cold weather or other cold source), and any associated symptoms.If there is any partial thickness skin loss, this should also be documented.
** Excludes1: birth trauma (P10-P15), obstetric trauma (O70-O71). Excludes2: hypothermia and other effects of reduced temperature (T68, T69.-).
- Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Primary Care, Dermatology, Podiatry
- Place of Service:Office, Emergency Room - Hospital, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Urgent Care Facility