Clubbing of fingers

This code describes the physical finding of clubbing, characterized by bulbous enlargement of the distal phalanges of the fingers (and sometimes toes) with associated nail changes, such as increased convexity and loss of the normal angle between the nail and nail bed. It is a non-specific sign often indicative of underlying systemic disease.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states "clubbing of fingers" as a clinical finding. This finding is frequently associated with chronic respiratory conditions (e.g., lung cancer, cystic fibrosis), cardiovascular diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, and liver cirrhosis. Documentation should clearly identify the presence of clubbing.

• Always code the underlying condition causing the clubbing, if known and documented, as the primary diagnosis.
• This code should be used as a secondary diagnosis to further specify a clinical finding.
• Do not confuse with other nail disorders or deformities that do not involve the characteristic bulbous enlargement of the digit.