Dermatophytosis of scalp and beard

This code signifies a fungal infection affecting the hair and skin of the scalp and/or beard area. It encompasses conditions commonly known as tinea capitis (scalp) and tinea barbae (beard), caused by dermatophytes. The infection typically presents with scaling, erythema, hair loss, and sometimes pustules or kerions.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a dermatophyte infection localized to the scalp or beard region. This includes diagnoses such as tinea capitis, tinea barbae, or ringworm of the scalp/beard. Supporting documentation should specify the anatomical site of the fungal infection.

• Differentiate from other fungal skin infections affecting different body sites (e.g., tinea corporis, tinea pedis).
• Do not use for non-dermatophyte fungal infections of the scalp or beard.
• Consider an additional code for the causative organism (e.g., Trichophyton, Microsporum) if identified and clinically relevant.