Dermatitis due to unspecified substance taken internally
ICD-10 L27.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of dermatitis due to unspecified substance taken internally.
L27.9 refers to dermatitis due to an unspecified substance taken internally, which can manifest as an inflammatory skin condition resulting from the ingestion of various substances, including medications, food allergens, or toxins. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as erythema, pruritus, and vesicular lesions, which can vary in severity depending on the individual's sensitivity and the nature of the substance involved. The skin and subcutaneous tissues are primarily affected, with potential systemic involvement if the reaction is severe. Disease progression can lead to chronic dermatitis if the offending agent is not identified and eliminated. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and possibly patch testing or laboratory investigations to rule out other dermatological conditions. It is essential to differentiate L27.9 from other dermatitis codes that specify the substance or route of exposure, as this can impact treatment and management strategies.
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
L27.9 covers dermatitis resulting from an unspecified internal substance, which may include reactions to medications, food, or environmental toxins. It does not specify the exact substance, making it essential to investigate the patient's history for accurate diagnosis.
L27.9 should be used when the specific substance causing dermatitis is unknown or cannot be identified. If the substance is known, related codes such as L27.0 or L27.1 should be utilized for more accurate coding.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history, including any recent medications or dietary changes, physical examination findings, and any diagnostic tests performed. Clear notes on the clinical reasoning for using L27.9 are crucial.