Atopic dermatitis (L20)

Atopic dermatitis codes, starting with L20, are used to identify various forms of this chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, red, and swollen skin. These ICD-10 codes cover specific clinical presentations such as Besnier's prurigo (L20.0), flexural eczema (L20.82), and infantile eczema (L20.83), as well as unspecified types (L20.9).

The ICD-10 code for atopic dermatitis captures diverse manifestations, including allergic and non-allergic eczema types. For instance, L20.0 refers to Besnier's prurigo, also known as pruritic dermatitis, marked by intense itching. L20.82 identifies flexural eczema, often called childhood or adult atopic flexural dermatitis, affecting bends of the skin like elbows and knees. Codes L20.83 and L20.89 cover both acute infantile eczema and other variants such as pustular or discoid eczema. The L20.9 code is reserved for unspecified atopic dermatitis cases, which may include generalized or infected eczema presentations. Using these specific codes helps accurately document and differentiate the forms and severity of atopic dermatitis for clinical and billing purposes, guiding appropriate care and treatment plans.

Clinical Terms

The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.

Dermatitis, Allergic Contact

A contact dermatitis due to allergic sensitization to various substances. These substances subsequently produce inflammatory reactions in the skin of those who have acquired hypersensitivity to them as a result of prior exposure.

Dermatitis, Atopic

A chronic inflammatory genetically determined disease of the skin marked by increased ability to form reagin (IgE), with increased susceptibility to allergic rhinitis and asthma, and hereditary disposition to a lowered threshold for pruritus. It is manifested by lichenification, excoriation, and crusting, mainly on the flexural surfaces of the elbow and knee. In infants it is known as infantile eczema.

Dermatitis, Contact

A type of acute or chronic skin reaction in which sensitivity is manifested by reactivity to materials or substances coming in contact with the skin. It may involve allergic or non-allergic mechanisms.

Eczema

A dermatitis characterized by a spongiotic tissue reaction pattern occurring as a reaction to many endogenous and exogenous agents.

Eczema, Dyshidrotic

A recurrent eczematous reaction characterized by the development of vesicular eruptions on the palms and soles, particularly along the sides and between the digits. It is accompanied by pruritus, a burning sensation, and hyperhidrosis. The disease is self-limiting, lasting only a few weeks. (Dorland, 27th ed)

Kaposi Varicelliform Eruption

A disseminated vesicular-pustular eruption caused by the herpes simplex virus (HERPESVIRUS HOMINIS), the VACCINIA VIRUS, or Varicella zoster (HERPESVIRUS 3, HUMAN). It is usually superimposed on a preexisting, inactive or active, atopic dermatitis (DERMATITIS, ATOPIC).

Skin Diseases, Eczematous

Any of a variety of eruptive skin disorders characterized by erythema, oozing, vesiculation, and scaling. Etiology is varied.

Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome

A rare, X-linked immunodeficiency syndrome characterized by ECZEMA; LYMPHOPENIA; and, recurrent pyogenic infection. It is seen exclusively in young boys. Typically, IMMUNOGLOBULIN M levels are low and IMMUNOGLOBULIN A and IMMUNOGLOBULIN E levels are elevated. Lymphoreticular malignancies are common.