Allergic contact dermatitis due to animal (cat) (dog) dander
ICD-10 L23.81 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis due to animal (cat) (dog) dander.
Allergic contact dermatitis due to animal dander, specifically from cats and dogs, is a hypersensitivity reaction that occurs when the skin comes into contact with allergens present in the dander of these animals. Clinically, patients may present with erythema, pruritus, and vesicular lesions at the site of exposure, which can progress to more widespread dermatitis if not managed. The anatomy involved primarily includes the epidermis and dermis, where the immune response is triggered by sensitized T-cells reacting to the allergenic proteins found in animal dander. Disease progression can vary; some individuals may experience acute symptoms that resolve with avoidance of the allergen, while others may develop chronic dermatitis characterized by lichenification and persistent itching. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and potentially patch testing to confirm the specific allergen responsible for the dermatitis. It is essential to differentiate this condition from other forms of dermatitis, such as atopic dermatitis or irritant contact dermatitis, to ensure appropriate management.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
L23.81 specifically covers allergic contact dermatitis resulting from exposure to dander from cats and dogs. This includes localized skin reactions such as erythema, vesicles, and pruritus that occur after contact with these allergens.
L23.81 should be used when the dermatitis is specifically due to cat or dog dander. If the allergen is not specified or is from another source, other codes such as L23.82 may be more appropriate.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history indicating exposure to cats or dogs, clinical findings of dermatitis, and any allergy testing results that confirm sensitivity to animal dander.
