2025 ICD-10-CM code L29.8
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Dermatitis and eczema - Pruritus XII Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue Feed
Other pruritus, encompassing any itching not specified elsewhere.
Medical necessity is established when the pruritus significantly impacts the patient's quality of life, interferes with daily activities, or causes significant distress.The necessity for further investigations would depend on the severity and persistence of symptoms.
Diagnosis and management of pruritus. This includes taking a detailed history, performing a thorough physical examination, conducting appropriate investigations (such as allergy testing or skin biopsy if necessary), and prescribing treatment according to the identified cause or symptoms.
In simple words: This code means itching of the skin for which there is no more specific diagnosis.The doctor uses this when the cause of the itch isn't clear or doesn't fit other itch-related diagnoses.
L29.8, Other pruritus, is an ICD-10-CM code classifying various types of itching not categorized under more specific pruritus codes (e.g., pruritus ani, pruritus scroti, etc.).It's used when the underlying cause of the itching is unknown or doesn't fit into the other defined pruritus categories.This code is within the broader classification of dermatitis and eczema, reflecting the frequent association between skin inflammation and itching.
Example 1: A patient presents with generalized itching without any visible skin lesions.Investigations reveal no specific cause., A patient with a known skin condition (e.g., psoriasis) experiences a significant increase in itching, and the itching is severe enough to warrant separate coding., A patient presents with chronic, widespread itching that doesn't respond to standard treatments, and the cause remains undetermined despite comprehensive investigations.
Detailed history of the onset, duration, character, and location of pruritus. Description of any associated symptoms (e.g., rash, lesions, pain). Results of any investigations performed (e.g., allergy tests, blood tests, skin biopsy). Documentation of treatment provided and patient response.
** This code is used for unspecified pruritus. If a cause for pruritus is identified, the underlying cause should also be coded.This code should not be used for pruritus that is caused by a specific condition for which there is a more appropriate code.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Dermatology, Allergy and Immunology, General Practice
- Place of Service:Office, Clinic, Hospital