2025 ICD-10-CM code L23
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Dermatitis and eczema - Dermatitis and eczema (L20-L30) Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (L00-L99) Feed
Allergic contact dermatitis
Medical necessity for services related to allergic contact dermatitis is established by the presence of signs and symptoms, such as an itchy rash, and the need to identify the causative allergen and provide appropriate treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent future reactions.This often involves patch testing and patient education.
Diagnosis and treatment of allergic contact dermatitis falls under the purview of various medical professionals, including dermatologists, allergists, and primary care physicians.Responsibilities include:*Taking a detailed patient history, including identifying potential allergens and previous reactions.*Performing a physical examination to assess the rash's characteristics and distribution.*Conducting patch testing to pinpoint the specific allergen causing the reaction.*Prescribing appropriate treatment, such as topical corticosteroids or oral antihistamines, to alleviate symptoms.*Educating patients on allergen avoidance and preventative measures.
In simple words: A skin rash caused by touching something you are allergic to.
Allergic contact dermatitis is a skin reaction resulting from exposure to an allergen.
Example 1: A patient presents with an itchy, red rash on their hands after wearing a new pair of nickel earrings. Patch testing confirms a nickel allergy., A landscaper develops a blistering rash on their arms and legs after working with poison ivy. The diagnosis is allergic contact dermatitis., A patient experiences a recurrent rash on their face after using a specific cosmetic product.Allergy testing identifies the ingredient causing the reaction.
Documentation for allergic contact dermatitis should include:*Detailed description of the rash, including location, appearance, and associated symptoms.*Patient history, including potential allergen exposure, previous reactions, and family history of allergies.*Results of any allergy testing performed (e.g., patch test).*Treatment plan and patient education provided.
** Excludes1: allergy NOS (T78.40), contact dermatitis NOS (L25.9), dermatitis NOS (L30.9)Excludes2: dermatitis due to substances taken internally (L27.-), dermatitis of eyelid (H01.1-), diaper dermatitis (L22), eczema of external ear (H60.5-), irritant contact dermatitis (L24.-), perioral dermatitis (L71.0), radiation-related disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (L55-L59)
- Specialties:Dermatology, Allergy and Immunology, Primary Care
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Inpatient Hospital