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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 12: Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissueL83

L83

Billable

Acanthosis nigricans

Chapter 12:Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 L83 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acanthosis nigricans.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acanthosis nigricans (L83) is a skin condition characterized by dark, velvety patches in body folds and creases, commonly found in areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. This condition is often associated with insulin resistance, obesity, and endocrine disorders, making it a significant marker for metabolic syndrome. Acanthosis nigricans can also be linked to certain medications and genetic syndromes, highlighting its multifactorial nature. Clinicians should be aware of the underlying conditions that may contribute to the development of acanthosis nigricans to provide appropriate management and treatment options.

  • The clinical significance of L83 extends beyond dermatological concerns, as it may indicate a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Proper identification and coding of acanthosis nigricans are crucial for tracking patient health outcomes and ensuring that patients receive comprehensive care. Usage guidelines recommend that healthcare providers document the presence of acanthosis nigricans in conjunction with any underlying conditions to facilitate accurate coding and billing, as well as to inform treatment strategies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of underlying conditions
  • Potential for misdiagnosis
  • Need for comprehensive patient history

Audit Risk Factors

  • Incomplete documentation of associated conditions
  • Failure to link to metabolic syndrome
  • Inaccurate coding due to misinterpretation of symptoms

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

Endocrinology

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

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ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical impact of the L83 code category is significant, as it serves as a key indicator of potential metabolic disorders in patients. By accurately coding acanthosis nigricans, healthcare providers can better track patient outcomes and implement preventive measures for conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This code also plays a role in quality measures, as it highlights the importance of addressing skin manifestations that may signal underlying health issues.
From an administrative perspective, the accurate use of L83 can influence population health initiatives and healthcare trends. As awareness of the link between acanthosis nigricans and metabolic syndrome grows, healthcare systems can develop targeted interventions to address these conditions. This not only improves individual patient care but also contributes to broader public health goals by reducing the incidence of related diseases in the population.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical impact of the L83 code category is significant, as it serves as a key indicator of potential metabolic disorders in patients. By accurately coding acanthosis nigricans, healthcare providers can better track patient outcomes and implement preventive measures for conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This code also plays a role in quality measures, as it highlights the importance of addressing skin manifestations that may signal underlying health issues. From an administrative perspective, the accurate use of L83 can influence population health initiatives and healthcare trends. As awareness of the link between acanthosis nigricans and metabolic syndrome grows, healthcare systems can develop targeted interventions to address these conditions. This not only improves individual patient care but also contributes to broader public health goals by reducing the incidence of related diseases in the population.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement may vary based on the complexity of the patient's presentation and the extent of the evaluation and management services provided. It is essential to use appropriate CPT codes that reflect the level of care given, as well as to include L83 in the billing to indicate the specific diagnosis.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Official ICD-10 Guidelines for L83

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Official ICD-10 Guidelines for L83

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions are included in L83?

L83 primarily covers acanthosis nigricans, which can be associated with conditions such as obesity, insulin resistance, and certain endocrine disorders. It may also be linked to medications and genetic syndromes.

When should I use L83 codes?

L83 codes should be used when a patient presents with clinical signs of acanthosis nigricans, particularly when there is a need to document the condition in relation to metabolic syndrome or other underlying health issues.

What documentation is required for L83?

Documentation should include a detailed description of the skin findings, any associated conditions, and relevant patient history, including risk factors such as obesity and insulin resistance.