Impetigo, unspecified

This code represents a superficial bacterial skin infection characterized by pustules and honey-colored crusts, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes. It is highly contagious and commonly affects children, often appearing on the face, neck, and hands.

Use this code when the medical record documents a diagnosis of impetigo without specifying the type (e.g., bullous, non-bullous). This code is appropriate when the physician's documentation simply states "impetigo" without further detail regarding its clinical presentation or specific bacterial cause.

• Avoid using this code if the documentation specifies a particular type of impetigo; instead, use a more specific code from the L01 category.
• Do not confuse impetigo with other skin infections like cellulitis (L03.-) or folliculitis (L73.9).
• Always review the physician's notes for any mention of the causative organism, which would allow for more specific coding if available.