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  2. ICD-10-CM Codes List
  3. L00–L99
  4. L40-L45
  5. Other papulosquamous disorders (L44)

Other papulosquamous disorders (L44)

The ICD-10 codes in the L44 section are used to classify a variety of specific papulosquamous skin disorders characterized by scaly and raised lesions. These codes include conditions like pityriasis rubra pilaris, lichen nitidus, and infantile papular acrodermatitis, each with distinct clinical features.

Other papulosquamous disorders (L44) cover a group of less common inflammatory skin diseases. For example, L44.0 denotes pityriasis rubra pilaris, sometimes called "adult" or "juvenile" types and associated with HIV infection; this helps differentiate it from other forms of scaly rashes. Codes like L44.1 and L44.2 identify lichen nitidus and lichen striatus respectively; conditions sometimes accompanied by nail changes. L44.4 refers to Gianotti-Crosti syndrome, known by synonyms such as acropustulosis of infancy. When a specific diagnosis is unclear, L44.9 allows for coding an unspecified papulosquamous disorder, including general terms like papulosquamous dermatosis. These ICD-10 codes are essential for precisely documenting skin conditions with overlapping symptoms but differing treatments.

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.

Lichen Nitidus

A chronic inflammatory disease characterized by shiny, flat-topped, usually flesh-colored micropapules no larger than the head of a pin. Lesions are localized in the early stages, found chiefly on the lower abdomen, penis, and inner surface of the thighs. Distribution may become generalized as the disease progresses.

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.