Cholinergic urticaria
ICD-10 L50.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cholinergic urticaria.
Cholinergic urticaria is a hypersensitivity reaction characterized by the development of hives (urticaria) in response to an increase in body temperature, often triggered by exercise, hot showers, or emotional stress. Clinically, patients present with pruritic wheals that typically appear within minutes of exposure to the triggering stimulus and can last for a few hours. The condition is thought to involve the release of histamine and other inflammatory mediators from mast cells in the skin, leading to the characteristic rash. The skin involved includes the dermis and epidermis, where mast cells are abundant. Disease progression can vary; while some patients experience intermittent episodes, others may have chronic symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history and physical examination, often supplemented by provocation tests to identify specific triggers. In some cases, skin prick tests or serum tryptase levels may be evaluated to rule out other conditions. Management typically involves avoidance of known triggers and may include antihistamines to alleviate symptoms.
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
L50.5 specifically covers cholinergic urticaria, which is triggered by heat, exercise, or emotional stress, leading to hives. It does not include other forms of urticaria such as allergic or physical urticaria.
L50.5 should be used when the patient presents with hives specifically triggered by increased body temperature or sweating, differentiating it from other urticaria types that may have different triggers.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history of symptoms, identification of triggers, results of any provocation tests, and treatment responses. Clear notes on the nature of the urticaria and its impact on the patient’s daily life are also important.
