Pruritus ani

This code signifies the symptom of itching specifically localized to the anal region. It describes a sensation of irritation that prompts the urge to scratch the perianal skin. This condition can be acute or chronic and may be a primary complaint or secondary to other underlying issues.

Use this code when the patient presents with the chief complaint of anal itching, and no definitive underlying cause has been identified or is being coded separately. Documentation should clearly state "pruritus ani" or "anal itching" as the primary reason for the encounter or a significant symptom being addressed.

• Do not use this code if a definitive cause for the anal pruritus (e.g., hemorrhoids, fungal infection, pinworms) is diagnosed and coded.
• Consider sequencing this code as a secondary diagnosis if the pruritus is a symptom of another primary condition that is being treated.
• Ensure documentation specifies the location of the pruritus; generalized pruritus or pruritus of other sites would use different codes.