Contagious pustular dermatitis

This code represents contagious pustular dermatitis, also known as orf, a viral skin infection primarily affecting sheep and goats that can be transmitted to humans. It typically presents as a single, painful, nodular lesion, often with a central umbilication or crust, most commonly on the fingers, hands, or forearms. The lesion progresses through papular, target, nodular, ulcerative, and regressive stages.

Use this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of contagious pustular dermatitis in a human patient, usually following direct contact with infected animals or contaminated materials. The patient history should include exposure to sheep or goats, especially during lambing or shearing. Clinical findings should describe the characteristic lesion progression.

• Ensure documentation specifies "contagious pustular dermatitis" or "orf" to differentiate from other pustular skin conditions.
• Consider an external cause code (E-code) if the source of exposure (e.g., contact with sheep) is documented.
• Do not confuse with other forms of dermatitis or bacterial skin infections without clear documentation of viral etiology and animal exposure.