Bullous pemphigoid
ICD-10 L12.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid.
Bullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune blistering disorder primarily affecting the skin, characterized by the formation of large, tense blisters filled with clear fluid. It typically occurs in elderly individuals and is associated with the presence of autoantibodies against hemidesmosomal proteins, leading to a disruption in the adhesion between the epidermis and dermis. Clinically, patients present with pruritic urticarial plaques that progress to blisters, often located on the abdomen, groin, and extremities. The disease can be chronic and may lead to significant morbidity due to skin infections and complications from blistering. Diagnosis is confirmed through skin biopsy, which reveals subepidermal blisters and direct immunofluorescence showing linear IgG and complement deposition at the basement membrane zone. Disease progression can vary, with some patients experiencing spontaneous remission while others may have persistent or recurrent disease. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
L12.0 specifically covers bullous pemphigoid, an autoimmune blistering skin condition. It is characterized by the presence of subepidermal blisters and is distinct from other blistering disorders such as pemphigus vulgaris.
L12.0 should be used when the diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid is confirmed through clinical evaluation and histopathological findings. It should not be used for other conditions that may present with blistering, such as pemphigus or dermatitis herpetiformis.
Documentation for L12.0 should include clinical notes detailing the patient's symptoms, physical examination findings, and results from skin biopsies showing subepidermal blisters and immunofluorescence studies.
