Follicular cysts of skin and subcutaneous tissue
Chapter 12:Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue
ICD-10 L72 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of follicular cysts of skin and subcutaneous tissue.
Follicular cysts of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, classified under ICD-10 code L72, are benign cystic lesions that arise from hair follicles. These cysts are typically filled with keratin and can vary in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. Clinically, they present as firm, mobile nodules located primarily on the scalp, face, neck, and trunk. The cysts may be asymptomatic but can become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and discomfort. The anatomy involved includes the epidermis and dermis, where the hair follicle originates. Disease progression is generally slow, and while these cysts are benign, they can recur after excision. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies to differentiate them from other skin lesions. A biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis if there is uncertainty regarding the nature of the cyst.
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
L72 covers follicular cysts, primarily epidermoid cysts, which are keratin-filled lesions arising from hair follicles. It does not include other types of cysts such as pilar cysts or sebaceous cysts, which may be coded differently.
L72 should be used specifically for follicular cysts when the clinical presentation aligns with this diagnosis. If the cyst is of a different origin or type, such as a sebaceous cyst (L71), the appropriate code should be selected.
Documentation should include a detailed clinical description of the cyst, its location, size, symptoms (if any), and any imaging or biopsy results that confirm the diagnosis.
