2025 ICD-10-CM code L72.9

Follicular cyst of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, unspecified.

This code should only be used when the specific type of follicular cyst cannot be determined.If the type of cyst is known, a more specific code from the L72 range should be used.Always consult the latest ICD-10-CM coding guidelines for the most accurate coding practices.

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the encounter, such as the type of visit (e.g., new patient vs. established patient) or the place of service.

The medical necessity for coding L72.9 is established based on clinical findings indicative of a follicular cyst requiring evaluation.If the cyst is symptomatic (painful, infected, or causing cosmetic concern), this supports the medical necessity for coding. If asymptomatic, further documentation might be required depending on payer guidelines.

The clinical responsibility for coding L72.9 lies with the dermatologist or physician who performs the examination and diagnosis of the skin lesion.Appropriate documentation is crucial, including details of the physical examination findings, imaging studies (if any), and any diagnostic procedures performed to rule out other conditions.

IMPORTANT Consider using more specific codes (L72.0-L72.8) if the type of follicular cyst can be identified.Differential diagnosis should be documented to justify the use of this unspecified code.

In simple words: This code describes a cyst (a small, fluid-filled bump) that forms in the skin or just below the skin's surface, originating from a hair follicle.The doctor isn't able to specify what exact type of cyst it is.

This ICD-10-CM code classifies a follicular cyst located in the skin or subcutaneous tissue, where the specific type of cyst is unknown or cannot be determined.It encompasses various types of cysts originating from hair follicles, including but not limited to epidermal, pilar, trichodermal, and sebaceous cysts.The unspecified nature of this code necessitates thorough documentation to support the diagnosis.

Example 1: A 45-year-old male presents with a slowly growing, asymptomatic nodule on his scalp.Physical examination reveals a firm, well-circumscribed cyst of approximately 1 cm in diameter.No further diagnostic tests are performed.L72.9 is coded., A 20-year-old female presents with multiple small, tender nodules on her face.The nodules are suspected to be follicular cysts, but the exact type cannot be confirmed clinically or through imaging studies.L72.9 is coded pending further investigation., A 60-year-old patient undergoes an excisional biopsy of a subcutaneous nodule.The pathology report confirms a follicular cyst, but the specific subtype cannot be ascertained due to tissue artifact.L72.9 is applied.

** This code is frequently used in outpatient settings.In some cases, further investigations may be needed to clarify the nature of the cyst, leading to a change in the diagnosis and, consequently, the code.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Dermatology
  • Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
** Only Enterprise users with EHR integration can access case-specific answers. Click here to request access.