In simple words: This code describes skin redness, irritation, or damage caused by exposure to radiation, like that from radiation therapy for cancer. The type of radiation causing the damage isn't specified.

Radiodermatitis, unspecified (L58.9) is an ICD-10-CM code that describes inflammation of the skin resulting from exposure to ionizing radiation.It encompasses a range of radiation-induced skin reactions, from mild erythema to severe ulceration, without specifying the type or source of radiation.Further codes may be necessary to specify the radiation source (e.g., W88, W90).

Example 1: A patient undergoing radiation therapy for lung cancer develops erythema and desquamation in the chest area. Code L58.9 is used to document the radiation-induced skin reaction., A patient previously treated for Hodgkin's lymphoma with radiation therapy experiences recurrent skin inflammation and ulceration at the radiation site years after treatment. Code L58.9 is used, with appropriate additional codes to specify the delayed onset., A patient accidentally exposed to a significant dose of ionizing radiation presents with severe skin burns and blistering. Code L58.9 is used, along with codes to describe the severity of the burns and any other associated injuries.

Detailed history of radiation exposure (type, dose, dates), physical examination findings describing the skin reaction (location, size, severity), and any relevant imaging studies or lab tests. Documentation should specify if the condition is acute or chronic.

** This code should be used only when the type of radiation causing the skin reaction is unknown or not specified.Always consider using additional codes to fully document the severity and complications of the radiodermatitis, as well as any other related conditions.