Podiatry Coding & Billing Alert

Question: We are finding it difficult to pinpoint the correct diagnosis codes due to multiple confusing names that hard to find — or which may not even be in our coding book. Should the terms callus and corns be used interchangeably?

Indiana subscriber

Answer: Being well up on terminology always helps in coding. Note that a corn is a small, horny area of the skin caused by local pressure (e.g., a shoe or hosiery) irritating the tissue over a bony prominence. Corns usually occur on a toe, where they form “hard corns.” Between the toes, pressure can form a soft corn of macerated skin, which often yellows.

On the other hand, a callus is localized thickening and enlargement of the horny layer of the skin due to pressure or friction. Generally, calluses as well as corns can cause pain, and soft-tissue inflammation may occur around the base of the lesion.

Knowing these definitions is also helpful if you plan to ask the podiatrist for clarification. Both corns and calluses are thick layers of skin. They are caused by repeated pressure or friction at the spot where the corn or callus develops.

The podiatrist may note one or many of these symptoms:

• Skin is thick and hardened.
• Skin may be flaky and dry.
• Feet show hardened, thick skin areas that may be rubbed or pressed.
• The affected areas are painful and occasionally bleed.

Typically, you need to search in the L85.xx series, L90.xx series and L91.xx series for the appropriate diagnosis code, before you move to the procedural coding.