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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL68.2

L68.2

Billable

Localized hypertrichosis

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L68.2 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of localized hypertrichosis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Localized hypertrichosis is characterized by an abnormal increase in hair growth in a specific area of the body. Clinically, it presents as excessive hair in localized patches, which can occur on any part of the skin, including the face, arms, and legs. The condition can arise due to various factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetic predispositions, or as a side effect of certain medications. The anatomy involved primarily includes hair follicles and the surrounding dermal and epidermal layers. Disease progression is typically benign, but it may be associated with underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endocrine disorders. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history, physical examination, and potentially hormonal testing to rule out systemic causes. In some cases, a biopsy may be warranted to exclude other dermatological conditions. The localized nature of hypertrichosis differentiates it from generalized forms of excessive hair growth, making accurate diagnosis essential for appropriate management.

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 misclassifying localized hypertrichosis as generalized forms.
  • Documentation gaps may arise if the underlying causes are not thoroughly investigated.
  • Billing challenges can occur if the condition is not clearly defined in the medical record.

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

Endocrinology

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

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Localized hypertrichosis can significantly affect patients' quality of life, leading to psychological distress and social stigma. Understanding its prevalence and impact on population health is essential for healthcare providers. Effective management can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization related to cosmetic treatments. Epidemiologically, localized hypertrichosis may be underreported, necessitating further research to understand its true prevalence and associated comorbidities.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Localized hypertrichosis can significantly affect patients' quality of life, leading to psychological distress and social stigma. Understanding its prevalence and impact on population health is essential for healthcare providers. Effective management can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization related to cosmetic treatments. Epidemiologically, localized hypertrichosis may be underreported, necessitating further research to understand its true prevalence and associated comorbidities.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement may vary based on the treatment modality used, such as electrolysis or laser hair removal. Common denials can occur if the documentation does not adequately support the medical necessity of the procedure. Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical information is included in the medical record to avoid billing challenges and ensure compliance with payer requirements.

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 L68.2?

L68.2 specifically covers localized hypertrichosis, which may occur due to hormonal disorders, certain medications, or genetic factors. It does not encompass generalized hypertrichosis or hirsutism, which have different diagnostic criteria.

When should L68.2 be used instead of related codes?

L68.2 should be used when the hair growth is confined to a specific area and not associated with systemic conditions. It is crucial to differentiate it from generalized hypertrichosis (L68.1) and hirsutism (L68.0) based on clinical presentation.

What documentation supports L68.2?

Documentation should include a detailed patient history, physical examination findings, and any relevant laboratory results that support the diagnosis of localized hypertrichosis. Notes should clearly indicate the localized nature of the condition.