ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL65.2

L65.2

Billable

Alopecia mucinosa

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L65.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of alopecia mucinosa.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Alopecia mucinosa is a rare form of hair loss characterized by the presence of mucin deposits in the hair follicles, often associated with inflammatory conditions. Clinically, it presents as patches of hair loss, typically on the scalp, and may be accompanied by erythema and scaling. The condition is believed to be linked to an abnormal immune response, leading to the accumulation of mucin in the dermis, which can disrupt normal hair follicle function. The disease progression can vary; some patients may experience spontaneous regrowth, while others may have persistent alopecia. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by histopathological examination showing mucin deposition and inflammatory infiltrates. Differential diagnoses include other forms of alopecia, such as alopecia areata and telogen effluvium, necessitating careful evaluation to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Alopecia mucinosa can mimic other alopecias, requiring thorough clinical evaluation and possibly biopsy.
  • Treatment complexity: Treatment may involve topical or systemic corticosteroids, which require monitoring for efficacy and side effects.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of clinical findings, treatment response, and follow-up is essential for accurate coding.
  • Coding specificity: While L65.2 is specific, distinguishing it from other alopecias can be challenging.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other alopecias can lead to incorrect coding.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes may hinder accurate coding and reimbursement.
  • Billing challenges: Lack of clear treatment protocols can result in denials or delays in reimbursement.

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

Pathology

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Alopecia mucinosa, while rare, can significantly affect patients' quality of life due to its impact on appearance and self-esteem. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for healthcare providers, as it may be underdiagnosed. Awareness of this condition can lead to better management strategies and improved patient outcomes, contributing to overall population health.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Alopecia mucinosa, while rare, can significantly affect patients' quality of life due to its impact on appearance and self-esteem. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for healthcare providers, as it may be underdiagnosed. Awareness of this condition can lead to better management strategies and improved patient outcomes, contributing to overall population health.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

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 L65.2?

L65.2 specifically covers alopecia mucinosa, which is characterized by hair loss associated with mucin deposition in hair follicles. It is important to differentiate it from other types of alopecia, such as alopecia areata and telogen effluvium.

When should L65.2 be used instead of related codes?

L65.2 should be used when the clinical presentation and histological findings confirm alopecia mucinosa, particularly when mucin deposition is evident. It is crucial to differentiate it from other alopecias to ensure appropriate management.

What documentation supports L65.2?

Documentation should include clinical findings such as the pattern and extent of hair loss, any associated symptoms, and results from histopathological examinations confirming mucin deposition.