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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL85.1

L85.1

Billable

Acquired keratosis [keratoderma] palmaris et plantaris

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L85.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acquired keratosis [keratoderma] palmaris et plantaris.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acquired keratosis palmaris et plantaris, classified under ICD-10 code L85.1, is a dermatological condition characterized by the thickening of the skin on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. This condition often presents as rough, scaly patches that can vary in color from yellowish to brown. The thickening occurs due to an increase in keratin, a protein that protects the skin, often as a response to friction, pressure, or irritation. The condition can be associated with various factors, including occupational exposure, genetic predisposition, or underlying systemic diseases. Disease progression may lead to discomfort, pain, or secondary infections if the skin becomes fissured. Diagnosis typically involves a clinical examination, and in some cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin disorders. It is essential for healthcare providers to differentiate acquired keratosis from other keratodermas, such as palmoplantar keratoderma, which may have a hereditary component. Proper identification and management are crucial to prevent complications and improve patient quality of life.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires differentiation from other skin conditions.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve topical treatments, lifestyle modifications, or referral to dermatology.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes are necessary to support the diagnosis.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to capture the specific nature of the keratosis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other skin disorders.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes may lead to denials.
  • Billing challenges: Difficulty in justifying the medical necessity for treatments.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary medical specialty: 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

Secondary specialty: 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 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

Acquired keratosis palmaris et plantaris can significantly impact patients' quality of life, leading to discomfort and potential secondary infections. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is crucial, as it may affect individuals in specific occupations or those with certain lifestyle factors. Addressing this condition can improve population health outcomes by reducing the incidence of complications and enhancing overall skin health.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acquired keratosis palmaris et plantaris can significantly impact patients' quality of life, leading to discomfort and potential secondary infections. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is crucial, as it may affect individuals in specific occupations or those with certain lifestyle factors. Addressing this condition can improve population health outcomes by reducing the incidence of complications and enhancing overall skin health.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the diagnosis is well-supported by clinical evidence and that the treatments are deemed medically necessary. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate the need for treatment. Best practices include maintaining clear and comprehensive notes, using appropriate modifiers when necessary, and ensuring that all services rendered are linked to the diagnosis.

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 L85.1?

L85.1 specifically covers acquired keratosis palmaris et plantaris, which includes conditions resulting in thickened skin on the palms and soles due to acquired factors such as friction or pressure. It does not cover hereditary keratodermas or other forms of keratosis.

When should L85.1 be used instead of related codes?

L85.1 should be used when the keratosis is acquired and localized to the palms and soles. It is important to use this code when the condition is clearly linked to external factors rather than genetic predisposition.

What documentation supports L85.1?

Documentation should include a thorough clinical examination, patient history detailing exposure to irritants or friction, and any treatments attempted. Photographic evidence may also be beneficial in supporting the diagnosis.