Scratched by cat, subsequent encounter

This code indicates that a patient is presenting for follow-up care or treatment related to an injury sustained from being scratched by a cat. The initial injury has already been addressed, and this encounter focuses on ongoing management, complications, or healing.

This code is appropriate for encounters such as dressing changes for a cat scratch, evaluation of a healing wound, or treatment of a secondary infection that developed after the initial cat scratch. It signifies that the patient is not presenting for the initial assessment or treatment of the scratch itself.

• Always pair with an external cause code (e.g., Y92.820 for animal-care area) to provide more context about the incident.
• Ensure documentation clearly indicates that this is not the initial treatment for the scratch.
• Consider additional codes for any complications, such as cellulitis (L03.115) or other infections, if present.