Paresthesia of skin
ICD-10 R20.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of paresthesia of skin.
Paresthesia of skin refers to abnormal sensations in the skin, such as tingling, prickling, or numbness, that are not attributed to a specific underlying condition. This symptom can arise from various causes, including nerve compression, peripheral neuropathy, or systemic diseases. Patients may describe sensations that can be transient or chronic, and they may occur in localized areas or be more generalized. The clinical significance of paresthesia can vary widely, from benign causes like anxiety or temporary nerve compression to more serious conditions such as diabetes mellitus or multiple sclerosis. Accurate diagnosis often requires a thorough patient history, physical examination, and possibly additional diagnostic tests to identify any underlying conditions contributing to the paresthesia. It is essential for healthcare providers to document the characteristics of the paresthesia, including onset, duration, and associated symptoms, to guide appropriate management and coding.
Detailed patient history, including onset, duration, and associated symptoms; physical examination findings; and any diagnostic tests performed.
Patients presenting with chronic paresthesia due to diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or autoimmune disorders.
Consideration of comorbid conditions that may contribute to paresthesia, such as hypothyroidism or renal failure.
Acute assessment of paresthesia, including vital signs, neurological examination, and any immediate interventions.
Patients presenting with acute onset of paresthesia following trauma, stroke, or acute neurological events.
Rapid assessment to rule out life-threatening conditions, with clear documentation of findings and interventions.
Used when evaluating a patient with paresthesia in an outpatient setting.
Document the history, examination, and medical decision-making related to the paresthesia.
Internal medicine providers should focus on chronic management, while emergency providers should document acute assessments.
Document the characteristics of the paresthesia, including onset, duration, location, and any associated symptoms or underlying conditions.
