ICD-10 Coding for Atopic Dermatitis(L20.83, L20.84)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Atopic Dermatitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Atopic Dermatitis
L20-L30Primary Range
Dermatitis and Eczema
This range includes all types of dermatitis, with L20 specifically for atopic dermatitis.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L20.83 | Infantile eczema | Use for infants under 2 years with eczema symptoms. |
|
| L20.84 | Intrinsic (non-allergic) atopic dermatitis | Use when eczema is non-allergic in nature. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for atopic dermatitis
Essential facts and insights about Atopic Dermatitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for atopic dermatitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Patient is under 2 years with eczema symptoms.
Applicable To
- Eczema in infants under 2 years
Excludes
- Contact dermatitis (L23-L25)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documented onset under 2 years
- Flexural involvement
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect use for children over 2 years
Coding Notes
- Ensure age is documented to avoid incorrect code usage.
L20.84 - Intrinsic (non-allergic) atopic dermatitis
Use when eczema is non-allergic in nature.
Applicable To
- Non-allergic eczema
Excludes
- Allergic contact dermatitis (L23)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Negative IgE and skin prick tests
Coding Notes
Ensure allergy testing results are documented.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Contact with and (suspected) exposure to environmental tobacco smoke (acute) (chronic)
Z77.22Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Atopic Dermatitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L20.83.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Increases risk of non-compliance., Financial: Potential for denied claims.
Mitigation Strategy
Use detailed clinical descriptors., Ensure complete patient history is documented.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audits., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of patient records.
Mitigation Strategy
Provide detailed documentation to use specific codes like L20.83 or L20.84.
Impact
High audit risk for using L20.9 without detailed documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Provide comprehensive documentation to support specific code use.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Atopic Dermatitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Atopic Dermatitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Atopic Dermatitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic Atopic Dermatitis in Pediatrics
Specialty: PediatricsRequired Elements
- Age of onset
- Severity and location
- Treatment history
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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