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ICD-10 Coding for Milia(L72.0)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Milia. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Milk spotsEpstein pearls

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Milia

L72-L72.9Primary Range

Follicular cysts of skin and subcutaneous tissue

This range includes codes for various types of cysts, with L72.0 specifically for epidermal cysts, which includes milia.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for milia

Essential facts and insights about Milia

The ICD-10 code for milia is L72.0, used for epidermal cysts.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for milia

Epidermal cyst
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of small, white, non-inflammatory cysts.

documentation Criteria

  • Document method of treatment and medical necessity.

Applicable To

  • Milia
  • Milium

Excludes

  • L72.8 (Other follicular cysts)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Visual confirmation of 1-2mm pearly white papules without inflammation.
  • Patient reports irritation or functional impairment.

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusion with L72.8 for other cyst types.
  • Incorrectly using for infected cysts.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'epidermal cyst' to avoid confusion with other cyst types.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Other specified personal risk factors, not elsewhere classified

Z91.89
Use when documenting risk factors such as irritation from glasses.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Miliaria

L74.0
Miliaria involves sweat duct obstruction with erythema, unlike the non-inflammatory milia.

Acne, unspecified

L70.9
Acne presents with comedones or pustules, which are absent in milia.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Milia to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L72.0.

Impact

Clinical: Inadequate treatment records., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Use templates to ensure all elements are documented., Review documentation guidelines regularly.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data recording.

Mitigation Strategy

Confirm 'epidermal cyst' terminology in documentation.

Impact

Using incorrect ICD-10 codes for milia can lead to audits.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'epidermal cyst' and matches the ICD-10 code.

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 Milia, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Milia

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Milia. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Destruction of milia lesions

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • Number and size of lesions
  • Location of lesions
  • Method of destruction
  • Medical necessity

Example Documentation

10 milia (1-2mm) on bilateral cheeks treated with 30% salicylic acid peel; patient reports irritation from face masks.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Treated milia.
Good Documentation Example
Destroyed 12 milia (2-3mm) on upper eyelids using trichloroacetic acid; lesions impair contact lens application.
Explanation
The good example specifies the treatment method, lesion details, and medical necessity.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Milia? Ask your questions below.

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