2025 ICD-10-CM code L74.52

Secondary focal hyperhidrosis; excessive sweating in a specific area of the body, not caused by a primary condition.

Appropriate documentation is required to support the diagnosis and ensure correct coding.The underlying condition causing the secondary hyperhidrosis should be clearly identified. Codes L74.51 (Primary focal hyperhidrosis) and R61 (Generalized hyperhidrosis) should not be used if a more specific code is applicable.

Modifiers may be applicable depending on the circumstances of the visit and the services performed. Consult the current coding guidelines for specific modifier application rules.

Medical necessity for treatment is established based on the severity of hyperhidrosis and its impact on the patient’s quality of life.Documentation should support the diagnosis, including impact on daily living activities, and justification for chosen treatment. The underlying condition causing secondary hyperhidrosis must also be medically necessary to treat.

The clinical responsibility for this diagnosis lies with the physician or healthcare professional who conducts the assessment, identifies the underlying cause of the secondary hyperhidrosis, and develops a treatment plan. This may involve dermatologists, endocrinologists, neurologists, or other specialists, depending on the underlying etiology.

IMPORTANT L74.51 (Primary focal hyperhidrosis) should not be used for reimbursement purposes if there is a more specific code available (L74.510-L74.513)R61 (Generalized hyperhidrosis) should be used for excessive sweating affecting the entire body.

In simple words: Secondary focal hyperhidrosis means excessive sweating in just one part of your body. This isn't the main problem; it's caused by something else, like another medical issue or a medicine you're taking.

Secondary focal hyperhidrosis (L74.52) is an ICD-10-CM code that represents excessive sweating localized to a particular area of the body.This condition is secondary, meaning it is a symptom or consequence of another underlying medical condition or medication rather than a primary disorder itself.The affected area should be specified in the medical record.

Example 1: A 55-year-old female patient presents with excessive sweating in her left armpit (axilla) following a diagnosis of menopause.The physician documents secondary focal hyperhidrosis due to hormonal changes., A 30-year-old male patient experiencing excessive palmar sweating (hyperhidrosis of the palms) after starting a new medication for anxiety. The physician documents secondary focal hyperhidrosis related to medication side effects., A 60-year-old patient with a history of diabetes exhibits localized hyperhidrosis on the soles of their feet (plantar hyperhidrosis). The physician documents secondary focal hyperhidrosis as a complication of diabetes.

Detailed medical history including any underlying medical conditions, medications, and a thorough physical examination to assess the extent and location of the hyperhidrosis.Specific notes on the affected body area are essential for accurate coding.Any diagnostic tests performed to determine the underlying cause should also be documented.

** This code should only be utilized when the excessive sweating is localized to a specific area of the body and is a consequence of another underlying medical condition or medication side effect.Precise documentation of the affected area and causative factor is crucial for accurate billing and reimbursement.

  • Payment Status: Active
  • Specialties:Dermatology, Endocrinology, Neurology
  • Place of Service:Office, Hospital, Outpatient clinic
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