2025 ICD-10-CM code L70.8

This code classifies acne not specified elsewhere.

Refer to the official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines for proper selection and use of this code.

Medical necessity for treatment depends on the severity and impact of the acne on the patient's quality of life,including psychosocial effects, scarring potential, and failed attempts at self-care.Documentation should clearly link the chosen treatment to the clinical findings.

Diagnosis and treatment of acne by a dermatologist or other qualified healthcare professional.

IMPORTANT Consider L70.0 (Acne vulgaris) if the acne is common and presents with open and closed comedones, papules, and pustules.L70.9 (Acne, unspecified) can be used if the type of acne is not specified in the documentation.Exclude L73.0 (Acne keloid).

In simple words: This code is for types of acne that aren't specifically listed in other codes.It's used when a doctor describes acne but doesn't name the exact kind.

ICD-10-CM code L70.8, "Other acne," is used to classify various forms of acne that don't fit into the more specific categories (L70.0-L70.5, L70.9, L73.0).It encompasses acne presentations not otherwise specified, including atypical or less common types.This code should be used when the documentation describes acne but doesn't specify the exact subtype.

Example 1: A 16-year-old patient presents with multiple inflamed papules and pustules across the face, consistent with acne, but not fitting the criteria for acne vulgaris or any other specific subtype of acne., A 25-year-old patient presents with persistent acne lesions on their back, exhibiting features of both comedones and inflammatory papules, but not precisely fitting the criteria for any specific subtype., An adult patient presents with a less common form of acne, whose characteristics do not align with the common acne vulgaris or any other specified subtypes in the ICD-10-CM classification system.

Detailed description of the acne lesions (e.g., type, location, distribution, severity).Clinical examination findings should be documented, including the presence of comedones, papules, pustules, nodules, or cysts.Photographs may be helpful to support the diagnosis.The patient's age and medical history should also be noted.If any treatments were provided, details of those should also be recorded.

** This code is for situations where the specific type of acne cannot be determined based on the available clinical information.Accurate documentation is crucial for proper code assignment.If possible, more specific sub-types of acne should be coded.Always review the latest ICD-10-CM guidelines for the most current coding practices.

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