2025 ICD-10-CM code L85.3
Xerosis cutis, commonly known as dry skin.
Medical necessity for treatment of xerosis cutis is based on the severity of symptoms and their impact on the patient's quality of life.Treatment aims to relieve symptoms, prevent complications such as infections, and improve skin hydration.
Diagnosis and management of xerosis cutis typically falls under the purview of primary care physicians, dermatologists, or other healthcare professionals depending on the severity and underlying causes.
- 12 Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (L00-L99)
- L85 Other epidermal thickeningL85.3 Xerosis cutis
In simple words: Dry skin is a common condition where your skin loses too much moisture, making it feel rough, itchy, and flaky.
Xerosis cutis, or dry skin, is a condition characterized by excessive dryness of the skin.It can present with symptoms such as itching, flaking, cracking, and roughness.
Example 1: A 65-year-old patient presents with complaints of itchy, dry skin on their legs, especially during the winter months.Upon examination, the skin appears dry, flaky, and cracked.The physician diagnoses xerosis cutis and recommends moisturizing creams and lifestyle modifications., A 20-year-old patient with a history of eczema presents with exacerbated dry skin. The physician diagnoses xerosis cutis secondary to eczema and prescribes topical corticosteroids in addition to moisturizers., An infant is brought in with dry, flaky skin on their scalp and face.The physician diagnoses xerosis cutis and recommends gentle, hypoallergenic moisturizers.
Documentation should include a description of the affected skin, associated symptoms, and any underlying conditions.The severity of the xerosis cutis should also be noted.
- Specialties:Dermatology, Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Internal Medicine, Geriatrics
- Place of Service:Office, Inpatient Hospital, Outpatient Hospital, Nursing Facility, Home