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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesChapter 12: Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissueL85

L85

Non-billable

Other epidermal thickening

Chapter 12:Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L85 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of other epidermal thickening.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The ICD-10 code L85 refers to 'Other epidermal thickening,' which encompasses a variety of conditions characterized by abnormal thickening of the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin. This category includes conditions such as keratosis, which can manifest in various forms, including actinic keratosis and seborrheic keratosis. These conditions may arise due to environmental factors, genetic predisposition, or chronic skin irritation. Clinically, epidermal thickening can present as rough, scaly patches on the skin, which may be asymptomatic or associated with itching and discomfort. Accurate diagnosis and coding are essential for appropriate management and treatment of these skin conditions.

  • The clinical significance of L85 lies in its role in identifying patients who may be at risk for skin malignancies, particularly in cases of actinic keratosis, which is considered a precancerous condition. Proper coding under L85 allows healthcare providers to track the prevalence of epidermal thickening conditions and implement preventive measures. Usage guidelines recommend that L85 be used when specific types of epidermal thickening do not fall under more specific codes, ensuring that the coding reflects the patient's condition accurately for treatment and research purposes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of conditions covered
  • Potential for misdiagnosis
  • Need for precise documentation

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of symptoms
  • Misclassification of conditions
  • Lack of follow-up care records

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

Primary Care

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 CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

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

The clinical impact of the L85 category is significant as it aids in the identification and management of skin conditions that may lead to more serious health issues, such as skin cancer. By accurately coding these conditions, healthcare providers can contribute to population health data, which can inform public health initiatives and preventive care strategies. Furthermore, tracking the prevalence of epidermal thickening can help in understanding trends related to environmental exposure and skin health.
Administratively, proper use of the L85 code can improve the quality of care provided to patients, as it allows for better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation. As healthcare trends shift towards value-based care, the accurate documentation and coding of conditions like those under L85 will play a crucial role in demonstrating the effectiveness of interventions and improving overall patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical impact of the L85 category is significant as it aids in the identification and management of skin conditions that may lead to more serious health issues, such as skin cancer. By accurately coding these conditions, healthcare providers can contribute to population health data, which can inform public health initiatives and preventive care strategies. Furthermore, tracking the prevalence of epidermal thickening can help in understanding trends related to environmental exposure and skin health. Administratively, proper use of the L85 code can improve the quality of care provided to patients, as it allows for better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation. As healthcare trends shift towards value-based care, the accurate documentation and coding of conditions like those under L85 will play a crucial role in demonstrating the effectiveness of interventions and improving overall patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement. Common practices include using specific CPT codes for procedures such as skin biopsies or cryotherapy when treating epidermal thickening. Additionally, it is important to communicate any associated symptoms or complications to justify the medical necessity of the services rendered.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    Official ICD-10 Guidelines for L85

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    Official ICD-10 Guidelines for L85

Frequently Asked Questions

What conditions are included in L85?

L85 includes various forms of epidermal thickening such as keratosis, including actinic keratosis and seborrheic keratosis, as well as other unspecified forms of thickened skin.

When should I use L85 codes?

L85 codes should be used when documenting cases of epidermal thickening that do not fit into more specific categories, ensuring accurate representation of the patient's skin condition.

What documentation is required for L85?

Documentation should include a detailed description of the skin condition, clinical findings, treatment plans, and any relevant patient history that supports the diagnosis of epidermal thickening.