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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL66.0

L66.0

Billable

Pseudopelade

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L66.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pseudopelade.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Pseudopelade, also known as pseudopelade of Brocq, is a rare form of cicatricial alopecia characterized by patchy hair loss and scarring of the scalp. Clinically, it presents with smooth, shiny patches devoid of hair, often with a background of erythema and scaling. The condition primarily affects the scalp but can also involve other areas of the body. The exact etiology remains unclear, but it is believed to be an autoimmune process leading to inflammation and destruction of hair follicles. The disease progression can vary; some patients may experience rapid hair loss, while others may have a more chronic course. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by a thorough history and physical examination. A scalp biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions such as lichen planopilaris or alopecia areata. Differential diagnoses include other forms of scarring alopecia, which may require distinct management approaches. Early recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent further hair loss and scarring.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors include misclassification with other alopecias.
  • Documentation gaps may arise if biopsy results are not included.
  • Billing challenges can occur if the condition is not well-documented or if treatment plans are unclear.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

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

Pathology

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 ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Pseudopelade, while rare, can significantly impact patients' quality of life due to its visible nature and potential for permanent hair loss. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for healthcare providers, as early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes. The condition's rarity may lead to underdiagnosis, affecting population health measures and healthcare utilization patterns, particularly in dermatology.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pseudopelade, while rare, can significantly impact patients' quality of life due to its visible nature and potential for permanent hair loss. Understanding its epidemiology is crucial for healthcare providers, as early diagnosis and intervention can improve outcomes. The condition's rarity may lead to underdiagnosis, affecting population health measures and healthcare utilization patterns, particularly in dermatology.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the diagnosis is clearly linked to the services provided. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or lack of medical necessity for procedures. It is essential to follow coding best practices, including using the most specific codes available and providing comprehensive clinical notes to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.

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 L66.0?

L66.0 specifically covers pseudopelade of Brocq, a form of scarring alopecia characterized by hair loss and scalp scarring. It is important to differentiate it from other types of cicatricial alopecia.

When should L66.0 be used instead of related codes?

L66.0 should be used when the clinical presentation aligns with pseudopelade, particularly when there is evidence of scarring and hair loss. It is crucial to differentiate it from other alopecias to ensure appropriate management.

What documentation supports L66.0?

Documentation for L66.0 should include clinical findings such as the presence of scarring, hair loss patterns, and any biopsy results confirming the diagnosis. A detailed history and physical examination notes are essential.