ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for pubic lice
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Lice (infestation) › pubic (Phthirus pubis)”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding pubic lice
The ICD-10-CM code for pubic lice is B85.3 (Phthiriasis).
Within B85 (pediculosis and phthiriasis), B85.3 is specifically for phthiriasis. Related codes cover pediculosis due to Pediculus humanus capitis (B85.0), pediculosis due to Pediculus humanus corporis (B85.1), pediculosis, unspecified (B85.2) and mixed pediculosis and phthiriasis (B85.4).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
In MS-DRG v44.0, it is part of the grouping logic for DRG 606 (Minor Skin Disorders with MCC, relative weight 1.5728) and DRG 607 (Minor Skin Disorders without MCC, relative weight 0.8772), in MDC 09 (Diseases and Disorders of the Skin, Subcutaneous Tissue and Breast), as a principal or secondary diagnosis. The DRG a claim lands in depends on the principal diagnosis, procedures and any CC/MCC secondary diagnoses.
Common questions about pubic lice ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for pubic lice?
- B85.3 — Phthiriasis.
Is B85.3 billable?
- Yes. B85.3 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can B85.3 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict B85.3 as a principal diagnosis.
Is B85.3 a CC or MCC?
- No. B85.3 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.