Irritant contact dermatitis due to plants, except food
ICD-10 L24.7 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of irritant contact dermatitis due to plants, except food.
Irritant contact dermatitis due to plants, except food, is a localized inflammatory skin condition resulting from direct contact with certain plants that cause irritation rather than an allergic reaction. Clinically, patients may present with erythema, edema, vesicles, and pruritus at the site of contact. The anatomy involved primarily includes the epidermis and dermis, where the irritant triggers an inflammatory response. Common irritants include plants like nettles and certain types of weeds. Disease progression can vary; initial exposure may lead to mild symptoms, but repeated contact can exacerbate the condition, leading to chronic dermatitis characterized by thickened, scaly skin. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history to identify exposure to potential irritants, physical examination findings, and, if necessary, patch testing to rule out allergic contact dermatitis. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and prevention of future episodes.
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
L24.7 covers irritant contact dermatitis specifically caused by non-food plants, such as nettles and other flora that can cause skin irritation upon contact. It does not include allergic reactions or dermatitis caused by food plants.
L24.7 should be used when the dermatitis is specifically due to irritants from plants, as opposed to allergic reactions or other dermatitis types. Accurate history of exposure is crucial for correct code selection.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history of exposure to irritant plants, clinical findings such as the appearance of the rash, and any treatments attempted. Photographic evidence may also be beneficial.