In simple words: Excessive sweating of the armpits, not caused by another condition

Primary focal hyperhidrosis, axilla

Example 1: A 25-year-old patient presents with excessive sweating under their arms, significantly impacting their daily life and social interactions. After ruling out other medical conditions, the physician diagnoses them with primary focal hyperhidrosis of the axilla., A teenager experiences profuse sweating in their armpits, causing embarrassment and discomfort during school activities. Following clinical evaluation and exclusion of secondary causes, they receive a diagnosis of primary focal hyperhidrosis of the axilla., A patient reports persistent, excessive underarm sweating unrelated to physical exertion or heat. They have tried various antiperspirants without success. A dermatologist diagnoses them with primary focal hyperhidrosis, axilla.

Documentation should include details about the onset, duration, and severity of sweating; location of sweating; impact on daily activities; family history; any attempted treatments and their effectiveness; and results of any diagnostic tests to rule out underlying conditions.

** This information is current as of December 1, 2024.Coding and payment policies can change, so it is essential to verify current guidelines with payers before submitting claims. For more specific information about coding and documentation for hyperhidrosis, please consult the International Hyperhidrosis Society (sweathelp.org) and the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC). While L74.510 is the most specific code for primary focal hyperhidrosis of the axilla, some payers may prefer the less specific L74.51. Always check with individual payers for their specific coding requirements.