Other specified local infections of skin and subcutaneous tissue

This code signifies localized infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue that do not fit into more specific categories. It encompasses a variety of bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections affecting the dermis and hypodermis, excluding widespread systemic infections or those with distinct ICD-9 codes.

Apply this code when documentation specifies a localized skin infection such as erysipeloid, pitted keratolysis, or cutaneous larva migrans, for which no more precise ICD-9 code exists. It is appropriate when the physician's diagnosis clearly indicates an "other specified" local skin infection.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states the type of infection to justify "other specified" rather than "unspecified."
• Do not use for abscesses, cellulitis, impetigo, or other infections with dedicated ICD-9 codes.
• Consider an additional code for the causative organism if identified and clinically relevant.