2025 ICD-10-CM code L58
Radiodermatitis. Use additional code to identify the source of the radiation (W88, W90).
Medical necessity for treatment of radiodermatitis is established by the presence of signs and symptoms of the condition, including pain, itching, inflammation, blistering, ulceration, or necrosis. The severity of the symptoms and the impact on the patient's quality of life should be documented to justify the need for medical intervention.
Clinicians should document the characteristics of the radiodermatitis, including its location, size, severity (e.g., erythema, desquamation, ulceration), and associated symptoms.They should also document the type and dose of radiation exposure, as well as any other relevant medical history. If another medical professional administered the radiation treatment, they may need to be contacted for additional information.
- 12 Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue (L00-L99)
- L55-L59 Radiation-related disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue
In simple words: Radiodermatitis is a skin inflammation caused by exposure to radiation.
A cutaneous inflammatory reaction occurring as a result of exposure to biologically effective levels of ionizing radiation.
Example 1: A patient receiving radiation therapy for breast cancer develops redness and blistering on the skin overlying the treatment area. This is documented as radiodermatitis., A nuclear power plant worker experiences localized skin burns after accidental exposure to ionizing radiation. The diagnosis is radiodermatitis., A patient undergoes prolonged fluoroscopy during a complex surgical procedure and subsequently develops mild erythema at the site of radiation exposure. This is classified as radiodermatitis.
The documentation should include the following:* Detailed description of skin changes: location, size, color, texture, and presence of blisters, ulcers, or necrosis.* Type of radiation exposure: ionizing or non-ionizing, as well as specific type (e.g., X-ray, gamma radiation, UV radiation).* Dose and duration of radiation exposure.* Date of onset and duration of skin reaction.* Associated symptoms, such as pain, itching, or burning.* Treatment provided.* Response to treatment.
** Radiodermatitis is often classified based on its temporal relationship to radiation exposure (acute or chronic) and the severity of the skin changes. More specific codes within the L58 category should be used if the information is available. For instance, L58.0 for acute radiodermatitis, L58.1 for chronic radiodermatitis, and L58.9 for radiodermatitis, unspecified.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Dermatology, Radiation Oncology, Oncology, Radiology
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Office, Military Treatment Facility