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 CodesL85.8

L85.8

Billable

Other specified epidermal thickening

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L85.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified epidermal thickening.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L85.8 refers to 'Other specified epidermal thickening,' a dermatological condition characterized by an abnormal increase in the thickness of the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin. This condition can manifest in various forms, including localized or generalized thickening, and may be associated with underlying skin disorders such as psoriasis, eczema, or chronic dermatitis. The clinical presentation often includes dry, scaly patches that may be itchy or painful. The anatomy involved primarily includes the epidermis, but the condition can also affect the dermis and subcutaneous tissue depending on the severity and underlying cause. Disease progression can vary; in some cases, it may remain stable, while in others, it can lead to complications such as secondary infections or significant discomfort. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and potentially a skin biopsy to rule out other conditions. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment planning.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors
  • Documentation gaps
  • Billing challenges

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 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

The clinical significance of L85.8 lies in its potential to affect patient quality of life due to discomfort and cosmetic concerns. Understanding the epidemiology of epidermal thickening can help healthcare providers identify at-risk populations and implement preventive measures. Quality measures may include monitoring treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction, which can influence healthcare utilization patterns and resource allocation.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of L85.8 lies in its potential to affect patient quality of life due to discomfort and cosmetic concerns. Understanding the epidemiology of epidermal thickening can help healthcare providers identify at-risk populations and implement preventive measures. Quality measures may include monitoring treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction, which can influence healthcare utilization patterns and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by the medical necessity of the services rendered. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate the necessity of treatment. Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is included in the medical record to support the diagnosis and any associated procedures.

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 L85.8?

L85.8 encompasses various conditions that lead to epidermal thickening not classified elsewhere, such as certain forms of dermatitis, keratosis, and other non-specific skin thickening disorders. It is essential to document the specific clinical findings to support the use of this code.

When should L85.8 be used instead of related codes?

L85.8 should be used when the epidermal thickening does not fit the criteria for more specific codes like L85.0 or L85.1. It is important to ensure that the condition is not better described by a more specific diagnosis.

What documentation supports L85.8?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, including the patient's history, physical examination findings, and any diagnostic tests performed. Photographic evidence may also be beneficial in supporting the diagnosis.