Name of the Condition

• Common Name: Insect Bite of Hand
• Medical Term: Insect Bite (nonvenomous) of unspecified hand, initial encounter
• ICD Code: S60.569A

Summary

An insect bite on the hand is a skin reaction resulting from the body’s response to the saliva or other substances secreted during the bite of a nonvenomous insect. This can cause mild to moderate discomfort and may result in swelling, redness, or itching.

Causes

Insect bites occur when a person’s skin is penetrated by an insect such as a mosquito, ant, or fly. The insect’s saliva or secretions cause the irritation and a potential allergic reaction.

Risk Factors

• Spending time outdoors, especially in areas with high insect populations
• Warmer seasons when insects are more active
• Not using insect repellent
• Lack of protective clothing

Symptoms

• Redness or swelling at the site of the bite
• Itching or irritation
• Pain or discomfort
• In some cases, minor bruising

Diagnosis

• Physical examination by a healthcare provider to assess the appearance of the bite
• Patient’s report of recent exposure to insects

Treatment Options

• Topical anti-itch creams or lotions to manage itching
• Oral antihistamines to reduce allergic reactions
• Cold compresses to alleviate pain and swelling
• Over-the-counter pain relievers for discomfort

Prognosis and Follow-Up

Insect bites typically heal without medical intervention within a few days to a week. Follow-up is generally not necessary unless symptoms worsen or signs of infection develop.

Complications

• Secondary infection if the bite area is scratched excessively
• Rarely, widespread allergic reaction requiring medical attention

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Use insect repellents when outdoors
• Wear long sleeves and pants to prevent insect contact
• Avoid scented lotions or perfumes that attract insects
• Keep windows and doors closed or use screens to keep insects out

When to Seek Professional Help

• Symptoms of infection such as increased pain, redness, or pus
• Signs of a severe allergic reaction, like difficulty breathing or facial swelling
• If the bite has not improved within a week

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology: aad.org
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Insect Bites: cdc.gov/insect-bites

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the encounter is correctly identified as the initial one to use the code S60.569A
• Carefully distinguish between venomous and nonvenomous bites, as they have different codes
• Verify the location of the bite is unspecified to match the ICD code criteria and avoid errors related to specific hand identification