Tuberculosis of skin and subcutaneous tissue

This code signifies a mycobacterial infection affecting the skin and underlying connective tissues, specifically caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It encompasses various cutaneous manifestations of tuberculosis, such as lupus vulgaris, scrofuloderma, and tuberculosis verrucosa cutis. The infection can be primary or secondary to systemic tuberculosis.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of tuberculosis localized to the skin and/or subcutaneous tissue. This includes confirmed cases based on biopsy, culture, or PCR, as well as clinically diagnosed cases with supporting evidence. Use when the skin is the primary or sole site of tuberculous involvement.

• Differentiate carefully from non-tuberculous mycobacterial infections of the skin, which have different codes.
• Ensure documentation specifies "tuberculosis" to avoid confusion with other granulomatous skin conditions.
• Review the "Excludes2" notes to avoid miscoding lupus erythematosus or systemic lupus erythematosus.