Folliculitis ICD-10 Code Overview

Folliculitis, an inflammation of the hair follicles, is a common skin condition that nurses frequently encounter.

Content reviewed by Ann Dietrich, MD, FAAP, FACEP.

Overview of Folliculitis

This condition can range from a minor irritation to a more severe infection requiring medical intervention. Understanding the ICD-10 codes associated with folliculitis, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for nursing professionals to provide optimal patient care.

Key ICD-10 Codes for Folliculitis

L73.9 - Follicular disorder, unspecified

This code is used when the specific type of follicular disorder is not detailed. It encompasses various follicular conditions, including unspecified folliculitis.

Nursing Application: This code applies when the diagnosis is confirmed as a follicular disorder but lacks specific identification. Proper documentation and noting any additional symptoms or findings can aid in future, more precise diagnoses.

L73.0 - Acne keloidalis

This code covers acne keloidalis, a form of folliculitis that primarily affects the nape of the neck and results in keloid-like papules.

Nursing Application: For patients presenting with persistent, keloid-like papules on the neck, nurses should consider acne keloidalis. Treatment often involves topical or oral antibiotics for secondary infections, antimicrobial cleansers, special shampoos, and patient education on avoiding irritants that could exacerbate the condition.

L73.1 - Trichomycosis axillaris

This code refers to a bacterial infection of the hair shafts in the axillary region, leading to yellow, red, or black concretions on the hair shafts.

Nursing Application: When encountering patients with discolored axillary hair and possible malodor, nurses should consider trichomycosis axillaris. Management typically includes improved hygiene and topical antibiotics.

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Causes and Risk Factors

Folliculitis is often caused by bacterial infections, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus. Other causes include fungi, viruses, and even physical irritation from shaving or friction from clothing. Risk factors for developing folliculitis include:

Poor hygiene
Tight clothing
Shaving
Hot tub use
Underlying skin conditions, such as eczema

Symptoms

The symptoms of folliculitis can vary based on the severity and type but generally include:

Red, swollen bumps or pimples around hair follicles
Itching or tenderness
Pus-filled blisters
Crusting or scabbing of the affected area

Nursing Management and Treatment

Assessment

A thorough assessment is critical. Nurses should take a detailed patient history, noting any recent activities that might have contributed to the condition (e.g., hot tub use, recent shaving, or tight clothing). Physical examination of the affected area will help in identifying the type and severity of folliculitis.

Patient Education

Educating patients is a significant aspect of nursing care for folliculitis. Nurses should instruct patients on proper hygiene practices, including:

Regular washing with mild soap
Avoiding the sharing of personal items like razors or towels
Wearing loose-fitting clothing to reduce friction

Treatment Options

Treatment varies based on the cause and severity of the folliculitis:

1. Mild Folliculitis:

Topical antibiotics (e.g., mupirocin) for bacterial infections
Antifungal creams for fungal causes
Proper skin hygiene

2. Moderate to Severe Folliculitis:

Oral antibiotics for more extensive bacterial infections
Oral antifungal medications for fungal infections
Warm compresses to reduce discomfort and promote drainage

3. Recurrent or Chronic Folliculitis:

Long-term antibiotics
Improving overall skin care routines
Possible referral to a dermatologist

Special Considerations for Nursing Care

Infection Control: Nurses must adhere to strict infection control practices to prevent the spread of infectious folliculitis, especially in healthcare settings. This includes proper hand hygiene and using personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed.

Monitoring and Follow-Up: Regular follow-up with patients is essential to assess the effectiveness of the treatment plan and make necessary adjustments. Nurses should monitor for signs of complications, such as cellulitis, which may require more intensive treatment.

Case Studies and Practical Applications

Case Study 1: Mild Bacterial Folliculitis

A 25-year-old male presents with itchy, red bumps on his thighs after shaving.

Assessment: Physical examination confirms mild folliculitis without signs of systemic infection.

Treatment: The patient is advised to stop shaving the affected area, use an antibacterial wash, and apply topical mupirocin.

Follow-Up: At the two-week follow-up, the patient's symptoms have resolved with no further intervention needed.

Case Study 2: Severe Folliculitis in a Diabetic Patient

A 60-year-old female with a history of diabetes presents with extensive, painful pustules on her lower legs.

Assessment: The patient reports poor blood sugar control and recent hot tub use. Physical examination reveals widespread folliculitis with some areas of cellulitis.

Treatment: The patient is prescribed oral antibiotics and instructed on proper wound care. Blood sugar management is also addressed.

Follow-Up: The patient returns in one week for a follow-up. Her condition has significantly improved, and she is counseled on preventing future occurrences.

Folliculitis is a common yet manageable condition that nurses frequently encounter. By understanding the ICD-10 codes associated with folliculitis and implementing appropriate interventions, healthcare professionals can provide effective patient care. Comprehensive assessment, patient education, and tailored treatment plans are crucial in managing folliculitis and preventing its recurrence.