Primary Care Coding Alert

Question: Our physician documented that the patient had an allergic reaction to surgical tape. What diagnosis should we submit?

New York Subscriber

Answer: ICD-9 includes several diagnoses that might be appropriate, such as 692.4 (Contact dermatitis and other eczema; due to other chemical products), 692.89 (... due to other specified agents; other), or 995.3 (Allergy, unspecified). Check with your physician about the specific type of reaction (dermatitis, redness, etc.). Knowing those details will help you determine the most appropriate choice.