2025 ICD-10-CM code L73.0

Acne keloid, a type of acneiform disorder resulting in keloidal scarring.

Adhere to official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines.Accurate coding requires thorough provider documentation of the clinical findings and the diagnosis.

Not applicable to ICD-10 codes. Modifiers are used with procedural codes.

Medical necessity for treatment will depend on the severity of the condition, the impact on the patient's quality of life, and the response to less invasive treatments.Documentation should justify the choice of treatment based on these factors.

Diagnosis and management of acne keloid often involve dermatologists.Treatment may include topical or systemic medications, excision of keloids, laser therapy, or other procedures.

IMPORTANT This code is distinct from other acne types (L70.-).Consider differential diagnoses like folliculitis, other inflammatory skin disorders, and scarring alopecia.

In simple words: Acne keloid is a type of acne that causes raised, lumpy scars, mostly on the back of the neck. It's more common in men and can be triggered by things like tight clothing or shaving.

Acne keloidalis nuchae (AKN) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by persistent folliculitis (inflammation of hair follicles) of the posterior neck, often leading to keloid formation (raised, scar-like tissue).It primarily affects men, particularly those with kinky or curly hair, and is associated with mechanical irritation from clothing, helmets, or shaving. The etiology is not fully understood, but inflammation, genetics, and androgenic hormones are likely contributing factors.The condition is manifested by papules, nodules, and subsequent keloid scarring, often leading to scarring alopecia (hair loss due to scarring).

Example 1: A 35-year-old African American male presents with persistent, inflamed papules and nodules on the back of his neck.He reports these lesions have been present for several years and have worsened over time. Physical exam reveals characteristic keloid scarring and some hair loss.Diagnosis: L73.0 Acne keloid., A 40-year-old male patient complains of recurrent acne-like lesions on the back of his neck that are painful and cause discomfort. The patient notes these lesions are worsened by wearing tight-fitting shirts.Exam reveals the presence of multiple inflamed nodules and hypertrophic scars consistent with acne keloidalis nuchae.Diagnosis: L73.0 Acne keloid., A 28-year-old male reports long-standing acne-like bumps and keloid formation on his nape. He has tried various over-the-counter treatments with minimal success. Clinical examination reveals multiple keloids, some with active inflammation.Diagnosis: L73.0 Acne keloid.

Detailed history of the lesions, including onset, duration, and aggravating factors (e.g., clothing, shaving).Physical examination findings noting the presence, size, location, and characteristics of the lesions (papules, nodules, keloids).Photographs may be helpful for documentation and follow-up.

** Acne keloidalis nuchae is a relatively rare condition.Accurate diagnosis may require a thorough history and physical examination, possibly supplemented by histopathological examination of a skin biopsy.

  • Revenue Code: Revenue codes will vary depending on the specific services rendered and the payer.
  • RVU: RVUs are not directly associated with ICD-10 codes; they are used for CPT codes which describe procedures or services.
  • Global Days : Not applicable to ICD-10 codes.
  • Payment Status: Active
  • Modifier TC rule: Not applicable to ICD-10 codes.
  • Fee Schedule : Not applicable to ICD-10 codes.
  • Specialties:Dermatology
  • Place of Service:Office, Outpatient clinic, Hospital
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