2025 ICD-10-CM code L59.8
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue - Radiation-related disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (L00-L99) Feed
Other specified disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue related to radiation.
Medical necessity for the use of this code is established by the presence of a skin or subcutaneous tissue disorder causally related to radiation exposure. The documentation should support the diagnosis and demonstrate the impact of the condition on the patient's health and function.
Clinicians responsible for assessing and managing patients with radiation-induced skin disorders. This may include dermatologists, oncologists, radiation therapists, and primary care physicians.
In simple words: This code describes a specific skin problem caused by radiation, other than radiation burn or an unspecified radiation injury to the skin.
This code encompasses skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders due to radiation exposure not classified elsewhere.It includes conditions like radiation dermatitis, soft tissue radiation necrosis, and other specified radiation-induced skin changes, excluding erythema ab igne (L59.0) and unspecified radiation-related skin disorders (L59.9).
Example 1: A patient receiving radiation therapy for breast cancer develops skin redness, dryness, and desquamation in the irradiated area, consistent with radiation dermatitis.This is distinct from a simple sunburn or radiation burn., A patient undergoing radiation therapy for prostate cancer experiences skin ulceration and necrosis in the perineal region several months after completing treatment. Biopsy confirms radiation-induced soft tissue necrosis., A patient presents with hyperpigmentation and telangiectasia in an area previously treated with radiation for a skin malignancy years ago. The changes are consistent with chronic radiation dermatitis.
Detailed documentation of the skin findings, including location, size, appearance, and associated symptoms. The history should include details of prior radiation exposure, including dates, site, and dosage. Diagnostic tests, such as biopsies, may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
** Refer to NCD and MAC guidelines for specific coverage policies related to soft tissue radiation necrosis.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Dermatology, Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Primary Care
- Place of Service:Inpatient Hospital, On Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Off Campus-Outpatient Hospital, Office, Independent Clinic