Erysipelas (A46)
The ICD-10 code A46 is used specifically to classify cases of erysipelas, a bacterial infection that primarily affects the skin and underlying tissues. This code covers different forms and locations of erysipelas, including facial, lower limb, and recurrent infections.
Erysipelas is identified by the ICD-10 code A46 in medical records and billing, helping healthcare providers document infections like facial erysipelas, erysipelas of the lower limbs (including both right and left sides), and recurrent skin infections caused by streptococcal bacteria. The synonyms such as recurrent cellulitis and chronic recurrent streptococcal erysipelas clarify that this code includes repeated bacterial skin infections which can affect different body areas, including the ear canal (infective otitis externa due to erysipelas). Using the ICD-10 code for erysipelas ensures precise classification of these bacterial skin infections for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and epidemiological tracking.
Instructional Notations
Type 1 Excludes
A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.
- postpartum or puerperal erysipelas O86.89
Clinical Terms
The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.
Erysipelas
An acute infection of the skin caused by species of STREPTOCOCCUS. This disease most frequently affects infants, young children, and the elderly. Characteristics include pink-to-red lesions that spread rapidly and are warm to the touch. The commonest site of involvement is the face.
Streptococcus
A genus of gram-positive, coccoid bacteria whose organisms occur in pairs or chains. No endospores are produced. Many species exist as commensals or parasites on man or animals with some being highly pathogenic. A few species are saprophytes and occur in the natural environment.
