2025 ICD-10-CM code W50.4XXD

Accidental scratch by another person, subsequent encounter.

Always use this code in conjunction with a code from another chapter (usually Chapter 19) that describes the nature of the injury (e.g., laceration, infection). The seventh character extension (X) is required to indicate the encounter type (A=initial, D=subsequent, S=sequela).

Medical necessity for the subsequent encounter is established by the presence of complications from the initial injury, such as infection, significant pain, or excessive swelling.Appropriate documentation is essential to justify the need for the follow-up visit.

The clinical responsibility depends on the nature and severity of the scratch.It could involve wound care, infection management, tetanus prophylaxis, pain management, or referral to a specialist if necessary.

IMPORTANT Related codes include W50.4XXA (initial encounter) and W50.4XXS (sequela).Consider codes from Chapter 19 (S00-T88) to specify the nature of the injury.

In simple words: This code is used when someone is scratched accidentally by another person, and it's a follow-up visit after the initial treatment.

This ICD-10-CM code classifies a subsequent encounter for an accidental scratch inflicted by another person.It's used when the patient has already received initial treatment for the injury and is now seeking further care, such as for infection or wound management.This code should be used in conjunction with a code indicating the nature of the injury from another chapter, usually Chapter 19 (Injury, poisoning, and certain other consequences of external causes).

Example 1: A child is scratched during playtime at school. The initial scratch is treated at the school nurse's office. A few days later, the scratch becomes infected, requiring a follow-up visit to the pediatrician for antibiotic treatment.Code W50.4XXD is used for this subsequent encounter., An adult is accidentally scratched during a physical altercation. They receive initial first aid. The next day, the scratch is still painful and significantly swollen, requiring a doctor's visit. Code W50.4XXD would be used to represent this secondary visit for management., A patient is scratched by a pet cat.After initial cleaning and antiseptic application, the wound requires a follow-up visit due to persistent infection.Code W50.4XXD is appropriate for this subsequent encounter, in conjunction with an infection code from Chapter 19.

Detailed documentation should include the circumstances of the injury, the date and time of the initial encounter, the treatment provided during the initial encounter, the date and time of the subsequent encounter, the treatment provided during the subsequent encounter, and any complications such as infection or significant scarring.

** This code is for accidental scratches, not intentional injuries such as assault (coded elsewhere).

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Emergency Medicine, Family Medicine, Pediatrics
  • Place of Service:Office, Emergency Room - Hospital, Urgent Care Facility
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