Acné excoriée
ICD-10 L70.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acné excoriée.
Acné excoriée, or excoriated acne, is a dermatological condition characterized by the intentional or unintentional picking and scratching of acne lesions, leading to further skin damage and potential scarring. Clinically, patients present with inflamed, excoriated papules and pustules, often accompanied by erythema and crusting. The condition primarily affects adolescents and young adults, particularly those with a history of acne vulgaris. The skin involved typically includes the face, back, and shoulders, where acne lesions are most prevalent. Disease progression can lead to secondary infections, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and scarring, complicating the initial acne condition. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough patient history to assess the frequency and reasons for skin picking, as well as a physical examination to differentiate between excoriated acne and other skin disorders. It is essential to evaluate for underlying psychological conditions, such as body dysmorphic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder, which may contribute to the behavior of skin picking.
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
L70.5 specifically covers excoriated acne, which is characterized by the presence of acne lesions that have been scratched or picked at, leading to further skin damage. It is important to differentiate this from other forms of acne, such as acne vulgaris (L70.0) or acne conglobata (L70.4).
L70.5 should be used when there is clear evidence of skin picking or scratching of acne lesions. If the patient presents with acne without excoriation, L70.0 should be used instead. Documentation should clearly indicate the behavior and its impact on the skin.
Documentation should include a detailed patient history highlighting the frequency and reasons for skin picking, physical examination findings, and any psychological evaluations that support the diagnosis of excoriated acne.
