Exfoliative dermatitis (L26)
ICD-10 code L26 is used to classify exfoliative dermatitis, a severe inflammatory skin condition characterized by widespread redness and peeling. This code specifically identifies cases where the skin’s outer layers extensively peel off, affecting large areas of the body.
Exfoliative dermatitis, also known by various terms such as generalized exfoliative contact dermatitis, pityriasis rubra pilaris, and subacute generalized exfoliative dermatitis, involves inflammation that leads to scaling and shedding of the skin. The ICD-10 code L26 covers not only idiopathic forms but also those caused by drug reactions or underlying diseases, often referred to as drug-induced desquamation of skin. This differentiation helps coders accurately capture conditions ranging from chronic generalized exfoliative dermatitis to focal symptoms like recurrent focal palmar peeling. Knowing these synonyms assists healthcare providers and coders in selecting the precise code for this uncommon but serious skin disorder in medical records and billing.
Instructional Notations
Inclusion Terms
These terms are the conditions for which that code is to be used. The terms may be synonyms of the code title, or, in the case of "other specified" codes, the terms are a list of the various conditions assigned to that code. The inclusion terms are not necessarily exhaustive. Additional terms found only in the Alphabetic Index may also be assigned to a code.
- Hebra's pityriasis
Type 1 Excludes
A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.
- Ritter's disease L00
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.
Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris
A chronic skin disease characterized by small follicular papules, disseminated reddish-brown scaly patches, and often, palmoplantar hyperkeratosis. The papules are about the size of a pin and topped by a horny plug.
