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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL66.2

L66.2

Billable

Folliculitis decalvans

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L66.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of folliculitis decalvans.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Folliculitis decalvans is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by the progressive loss of hair due to inflammation of hair follicles. It primarily affects the scalp and is marked by the presence of pustules, crusting, and scarring. The condition can lead to permanent hair loss if not treated effectively. The pathophysiology involves an autoimmune response that targets the hair follicles, resulting in follicular destruction and subsequent cicatricial alopecia. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination, supported by a biopsy that reveals follicular inflammation and destruction. Differential diagnoses include other forms of alopecia, such as alopecia areata and lichen planopilaris. Treatment options may include topical and systemic corticosteroids, antibiotics, and immunosuppressive agents, but the condition often requires a multidisciplinary approach for optimal management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and possibly biopsy for confirmation.
  • Treatment complexity: Involves multiple treatment modalities and may require specialist referrals.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of symptoms, treatment response, and follow-up is essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other alopecias.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other alopecias or scalp conditions.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding treatment history and response.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of clear documentation supporting the diagnosis.

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

Primary care

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

Folliculitis decalvans can significantly impact patients' quality of life due to its chronic nature and potential for permanent hair loss. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is crucial, as it may affect a small but significant population, particularly in adults. Effective management can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization by minimizing complications associated with untreated folliculitis decalvans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Folliculitis decalvans can significantly impact patients' quality of life due to its chronic nature and potential for permanent hair loss. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is crucial, as it may affect a small but significant population, particularly in adults. Effective management can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization by minimizing complications associated with untreated folliculitis decalvans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the diagnosis is well-supported by clinical evidence and that all treatment modalities are documented. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity for the treatments provided. Best practices include maintaining thorough records of patient visits, treatment responses, and any referrals made to specialists.

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 L66.2?

L66.2 specifically covers folliculitis decalvans, which is characterized by follicular inflammation leading to hair loss. It is distinct from other conditions like folliculitis or alopecia areata.

When should L66.2 be used instead of related codes?

L66.2 should be used when there is clear evidence of folliculitis decalvans, particularly when there is scarring and chronic inflammation of hair follicles, differentiating it from non-scarring alopecias.

What documentation supports L66.2?

Documentation should include clinical findings such as pustules, scarring, and hair loss patterns, along with treatment history and any biopsy results that confirm the diagnosis.