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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL29.8

L29.8

Non-billable

Other pruritus

BILLABLE STATUSNo
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 L29.8 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of other pruritus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L29.8 refers to 'Other pruritus,' which encompasses various forms of itching not classified under specific pruritic conditions. Pruritus is a common symptom that can arise from multiple dermatological conditions, systemic diseases, or environmental factors. Clinically, patients may present with localized or generalized itching, which can lead to scratching, secondary infections, and skin damage. The anatomy involved primarily includes the skin and its nerve endings, where itch signals are transmitted to the central nervous system. Disease progression can vary; acute pruritus may resolve with treatment of the underlying cause, while chronic pruritus may require ongoing management. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and possibly laboratory tests to identify underlying conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, or systemic diseases like liver or kidney dysfunction. It is crucial to differentiate L29.8 from other pruritus codes to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Varies based on underlying causes
  • Treatment complexity: May require multidisciplinary approaches
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed history and examination findings needed
  • Coding specificity: Requires careful differentiation from other pruritus codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of pruritus types
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete patient history or examination notes
  • Billing challenges: Difficulty in justifying the need for treatment without clear documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Allergy and Immunology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Pruritus significantly affects patient quality of life, leading to sleep disturbances, anxiety, and decreased productivity. It is a common complaint in various populations, often linked to underlying health issues. Understanding and addressing pruritus can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization, as effective management can prevent complications such as skin infections. Epidemiologically, pruritus is prevalent in conditions like eczema and psoriasis, highlighting the importance of accurate coding and treatment strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pruritus significantly affects patient quality of life, leading to sleep disturbances, anxiety, and decreased productivity. It is a common complaint in various populations, often linked to underlying health issues. Understanding and addressing pruritus can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization, as effective management can prevent complications such as skin infections. Epidemiologically, pruritus is prevalent in conditions like eczema and psoriasis, highlighting the importance of accurate coding and treatment strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Pruritus significantly affects patient quality of life, leading to sleep disturbances, anxiety, and decreased productivity. It is a common complaint in various populations, often linked to underlying health issues. Understanding and addressing pruritus can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization, as effective management can prevent complications such as skin infections. Epidemiologically, pruritus is prevalent in conditions like eczema and psoriasis, highlighting the importance of accurate coding and treatment strategies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for L00-L99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for L00-L99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by L29.8?

L29.8 covers various forms of pruritus not specified elsewhere, including idiopathic pruritus, pruritus associated with dermatological conditions like eczema or psoriasis, and systemic causes that do not fit into more specific categories.

When should L29.8 be used instead of related codes?

L29.8 should be used when pruritus is present but does not fit into more specific categories such as L29.0 or L29.1. It is appropriate when the cause of itching is unknown or when multiple causes are suspected.

What documentation supports L29.8?

Documentation should include a comprehensive patient history detailing the onset, duration, and characteristics of the itching, as well as any associated symptoms. Physical examination findings and any diagnostic tests performed should also be included to support the use of this code.