Abrasion or friction burn of face, neck, and scalp except eye, infected

This code signifies a superficial injury to the skin of the face, neck, or scalp (excluding the eye area) caused by rubbing or scraping, which has subsequently developed an infection. It represents a break in the skin's integrity with evidence of bacterial or other microbial colonization.

Use this code for patients presenting with an abrasion or friction burn to the specified anatomical sites where the wound exhibits signs of infection, such as erythema, purulent discharge, increased pain, or warmth. Documentation should clearly state the presence of an abrasion/friction burn and explicitly mention infection or provide symptoms consistent with infection.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "infection" or provides clear signs/symptoms of infection; otherwise, an uninfected abrasion code should be used.
• Do not use this code for open wounds that are not abrasions (e.g., lacerations, punctures) or for burns due to heat, chemicals, or electricity.
• Always sequence this code as a primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter, or as a secondary diagnosis if it's a complication of another primary condition.