Pruritus
Chapter 12:Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue
ICD-10 L29 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of pruritus.
Pruritus, commonly referred to as itching, is a sensation that provokes the desire to scratch. It can arise from a variety of dermatological conditions, including eczema, psoriasis, allergic reactions, and infections. The sensation of pruritus can be localized or generalized, affecting specific areas of the skin or the entire body. The skin anatomy involved includes the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, where various receptors respond to stimuli that can trigger itching. Disease progression can vary; acute pruritus may resolve with treatment of the underlying cause, while chronic pruritus can lead to significant discomfort, sleep disturbances, and secondary skin infections due to scratching. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and potentially skin tests or biopsies to identify underlying causes. Conditions such as liver disease, renal failure, and certain malignancies can also manifest with pruritus, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation to rule out systemic issues.
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
L29 encompasses pruritus associated with various dermatological conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and allergic reactions. It may also be linked to systemic diseases like liver disease or renal failure, necessitating a comprehensive evaluation.
L29 should be used when pruritus is the primary complaint without a specified underlying condition. If a specific cause is identified, such as dermatitis or urticaria, the corresponding code should be utilized.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history, description of the pruritus (localized vs. generalized), duration, any associated symptoms, and results from any diagnostic tests performed.
