Thrush ICD-10-CM Codes | 2023

What ICD-10 Codes Are Used for Thrush?

Thrush, commonly known as oral candidiasis, is a condition characterized by the overgrowth of the Candida fungus, primarily in the mouth and throat. Proper identification and coding of this condition are vital for effective treatment and patient care. Below are the ICD-10 codes frequently associated with Thrush:

• B37.0 - Candidal Stomatitis (Oral Thrush): Represents cases diagnosed with oral candidiasis. Patients typically exhibit white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, and sometimes the throat.
• B37.9 - Candidiasis, Unspecified: Utilized when the specific form or location of the candidiasis isn't indicated in the patient's medical records.
• B37.3 - Candidiasis of Vulva and Vagina: Pertains to patients diagnosed with a yeast infection in the vaginal region. While it's a different location, it's caused by the same Candida species as oral Thrush.
• B37.81 - Candidal Esophagitis: Denotes patients suffering from a Candida infection in the esophagus. This can be seen as an extension of oral Thrush and may cause difficulty swallowing.
• B37.83 - Candidal Cheilitis: Used for cases where the Candida infection is localized to the lips, causing inflammation and discomfort.
• B37.84 - Candidal Otitis Externa: Refers to fungal infections in the external ear canal caused by the Candida species.

Understanding these codes is essential for healthcare providers to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. For a deeper dive into Thrush and its associated ICD-10 codes, watch our explainer video. Additionally, for an extensive list of ICD codes and further resources, check out our Thrush ICD Codes.

Which Thrush ICD codes are Billable?

• B37.0 - Candidal stomatitis (Oral Thrush): Yes
• B37.9 - Candidiasis, unspecified: Yes
• B37.3 - Candidiasis of vulva and vagina: Yes
• B37.81 - Candidal esophagitis: Yes
• B37.83 - Candidal cheilitis: Yes
• B37.84 - Candidal otitis externa: Yes

Clinical Information

Thrush, medically known as oral candidiasis, is a fungal infection primarily observed in the mouth.

Causative Agent

The condition arises due to an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, which is naturally present in small amounts in the mouth and other body parts.

Symptoms:

• White or creamy patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, and sometimes extending to the throat.
• Redness or soreness, can cause difficulty in swallowing.
• Cracking at the corners of the mouth.
• A cottony feeling in the mouth or loss of taste.

Risk Factors:

• A weakened immune system, often seen in patients with conditions like HIV/AIDS or those undergoing chemotherapy.
• Prolonged use of certain medications, especially antibiotics or corticosteroids.
• Smoking, which can irritate the mouth lining.
• Wearing dentures, especially if they are not cleaned regularly or don't fit properly.
• Conditions like diabetes, which can cause an imbalance in the natural flora of the mouth.

Complications

If left untreated, the infection can spread to the tonsils, esophagus, and other body parts, leading to more severe complications.

Prevention and Treatment

Early diagnosis is crucial. Antifungal medications, both topical and oral, are commonly prescribed. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help prevent the recurrence of the infection.

Synonyms Include:

• Oral candidiasis
• Candida stomatitis
• Moniliasis
• Oropharyngeal candidiasis
• Yeast infection of the mouth