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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR23.8

R23.8

Other skin changes

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 R23.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other skin changes.

Key Diagnostic Point:

The ICD-10 code R23.8 is used to classify various skin changes that do not fall under more specific categories. This includes a range of symptoms such as discoloration, lesions, or other abnormal findings on the skin that are not otherwise specified. These changes can manifest as rashes, patches, or other alterations in skin texture or color. The clinical significance of these changes can vary widely, from benign conditions like eczema or contact dermatitis to more serious issues such as skin infections or malignancies. Accurate diagnosis often requires a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and sometimes laboratory tests or biopsies to determine the underlying cause. Given the broad nature of this code, it is essential for healthcare providers to document the specific characteristics of the skin changes observed, as well as any associated symptoms, to ensure appropriate coding and treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of potential underlying causes
  • Need for detailed clinical documentation
  • Differentiation from other skin conditions
  • Potential for overlapping symptoms with other codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Insufficient documentation of skin changes
  • Failure to specify the nature of the skin change
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers
  • Misuse of this code when a more specific code is available

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of skin changes, including size, shape, color, and associated symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with unexplained skin changes during routine check-ups or follow-up visits.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of systemic diseases that may manifest as skin changes, requiring comprehensive patient history.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute care documentation must include immediate observations and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with acute allergic reactions presenting with hives or rashes.

Billing Considerations

Rapid assessment of skin changes is critical, especially in cases of anaphylaxis or severe infections.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R23.8 When
  • Coders should refer to the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is supported by clinical documentation
  • The use of R23
  • 8 should be justified by the absence of a more specific diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R23.8 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient presents with skin changes requiring evaluation.

Documentation Requirements

Document the history, examination findings, and medical decision-making.

Specialty Considerations

Internal medicine and dermatology may have specific requirements for skin examinations.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of skin conditions, but R23.8 remains a catch-all for non-specific changes, necessitating careful documentation to avoid ambiguity.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of skin conditions, but R23.8 remains a catch-all for non-specific changes, necessitating careful documentation to avoid ambiguity.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more detailed coding of skin conditions, but R23.8 remains a catch-all for non-specific changes, necessitating careful documentation to avoid ambiguity.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use R23.8?

Use R23.8 when documenting skin changes that do not fit into a more specific diagnosis. Ensure that the clinical documentation supports the use of this code.