ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL72.12

L72.12

Billable

Trichodermal cyst

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L72.12 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of trichodermal cyst.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Trichodermal cysts, also known as epidermoid cysts, are benign, slow-growing lesions that arise from the hair follicles and are typically filled with keratin. They can occur anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the face, neck, and trunk. Clinically, these cysts present as firm, round nodules that may be skin-colored or slightly discolored. They are often asymptomatic but can become inflamed or infected, leading to pain and discomfort. The underlying anatomy involved includes the epidermis and the dermis, where the cyst forms from the infundibulum of the hair follicle. Disease progression is generally benign, but complications may arise if the cyst ruptures or becomes infected. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies to differentiate from other skin lesions. A biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis, particularly if there is suspicion of malignancy. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management and to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Moderate; requires differentiation from other skin lesions.
  • Treatment complexity: Low; typically involves simple excision.
  • Documentation requirements: Moderate; requires clear clinical notes and possibly imaging.
  • Coding specificity: High; specific to trichodermal cysts.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other cyst types.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding cyst characteristics.
  • Billing challenges: Denials due to lack of supporting documentation for 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

General Surgery

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

Trichodermal cysts, while benign, can impact patient quality of life if they become symptomatic or infected. They are common in the general population, contributing to healthcare utilization through outpatient visits and potential surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of these cysts can help healthcare providers better manage patient expectations and treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Trichodermal cysts, while benign, can impact patient quality of life if they become symptomatic or infected. They are common in the general population, contributing to healthcare utilization through outpatient visits and potential surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of these cysts can help healthcare providers better manage patient expectations and treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the procedure performed, whether it was excised or treated conservatively. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding. Coders should ensure that the procedure codes align with the diagnosis and that all clinical notes are complete and accurate to support the claim.

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 L72.12?

L72.12 specifically covers trichodermal cysts, which are benign cystic lesions originating from hair follicles. They are characterized by a keratin-filled sac and can be confused with other cyst types, such as sebaceous cysts or lipomas.

When should L72.12 be used instead of related codes?

L72.12 should be used when the diagnosis is specifically identified as a trichodermal cyst. If the lesion is not confirmed as such or is a different type of cyst, other codes like L72.11 or L72.9 may be more appropriate.

What documentation supports L72.12?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical examination note describing the cyst's characteristics, location, and any symptoms. Imaging studies or biopsy results confirming the diagnosis may also be necessary for comprehensive documentation.