Telogen effluvium
ICD-10 L65.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of telogen effluvium.
Telogen effluvium is a common form of hair loss characterized by diffuse shedding of hair, primarily affecting the scalp. It occurs when a significant number of hair follicles enter the telogen (resting) phase prematurely, leading to increased hair shedding. Clinically, patients may notice thinning hair or patches of hair loss, often triggered by stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, or underlying medical conditions. The condition can be acute, resolving within six months, or chronic, persisting for longer periods. The scalp anatomy involved includes hair follicles, which cycle through growth (anagen), transition (catagen), and rest (telogen) phases. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and sometimes laboratory tests to rule out other causes of hair loss, such as androgenetic alopecia or alopecia areata. A scalp biopsy may be performed in atypical cases to confirm the diagnosis. Understanding the underlying triggers is crucial for effective management and treatment.
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
L65.0 specifically covers telogen effluvium, which can be triggered by various factors such as stress, illness, hormonal changes, and nutritional deficiencies. It does not include other forms of hair loss like androgenetic alopecia or alopecia areata.
L65.0 should be used when the primary diagnosis is telogen effluvium, particularly when hair loss is diffuse and linked to identifiable triggers. It is important to differentiate it from other hair loss conditions that may require different management.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history, noting any recent stressors, medical conditions, or medications that may contribute to hair loss. Physical examination findings and any relevant laboratory results should also be included to support the diagnosis.
