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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL56.5

L56.5

Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP)

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L56.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (dsap).

Key Diagnostic Point:

Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP) is a benign skin condition characterized by the development of small, superficial keratotic lesions that typically appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, particularly the forearms and lower legs. The lesions are often described as having a raised, keratotic border with a central atrophic area, resembling a ring. DSAP is thought to be related to chronic sun exposure and is more common in individuals with fair skin. The condition usually manifests in middle-aged adults and may progress slowly over time, with new lesions appearing while existing ones may persist. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by a thorough history of sun exposure and the characteristic appearance of the lesions. In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to rule out other conditions such as squamous cell carcinoma or actinic keratosis. Management typically involves sun protection measures and, in some cases, topical therapies such as 5-fluorouracil or cryotherapy to reduce lesion visibility.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Moderate, as it requires differentiation from other keratotic lesions.
  • Treatment complexity: Low to moderate, depending on the chosen management strategy.
  • Documentation requirements: Moderate, necessitating detailed clinical notes and possibly biopsy results.
  • Coding specificity: Moderate, as it is specific to a particular dermatological condition.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other actinic conditions.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete patient history regarding sun exposure.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if the condition is not clearly documented.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary medical specialty: 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

Secondary specialty: Family Medicine

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 CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis has significant clinical implications, particularly in populations with high sun exposure. It is essential for dermatologists to recognize and manage this condition to prevent potential progression to more severe skin disorders. The condition's prevalence highlights the importance of sun protection measures in public health initiatives, as well as the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding skin cancer risks associated with chronic sun exposure.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis has significant clinical implications, particularly in populations with high sun exposure. It is essential for dermatologists to recognize and manage this condition to prevent potential progression to more severe skin disorders. The condition's prevalence highlights the importance of sun protection measures in public health initiatives, as well as the need for increased awareness among healthcare providers regarding skin cancer risks associated with chronic sun exposure.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement considerations include the necessity of prior authorization for certain treatments and the potential for denials if documentation does not adequately support the diagnosis. Best practices include thorough documentation of patient history, treatment rationale, and follow-up care to minimize billing challenges.

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 L56.5?

L56.5 specifically covers disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis, which is characterized by multiple superficial keratotic lesions primarily due to sun exposure. It is distinct from other actinic conditions such as actinic keratosis or porokeratosis of Mibelli.

When should L56.5 be used instead of related codes?

L56.5 should be used when the clinical presentation aligns with disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis, particularly when lesions are widespread and superficial, differentiating it from localized or more severe forms of actinic keratosis.

What documentation supports L56.5?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical examination noting the appearance and distribution of lesions, patient history of sun exposure, and any treatments attempted. A biopsy report may also be beneficial to confirm the diagnosis.