Back to HomeBeta

ICD-10 Coding for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation(L81.0)

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

Also known as:

PIHPostinflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

L81.0-L81.9Primary Range

Disorders of pigmentation

This range includes various pigmentation disorders, with L81.0 specifically for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Essential facts and insights about Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

The ICD-10 code for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is L81.0, used for hyperpigmentation following resolved inflammation.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for post inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of hyperpigmentation at sites of previous inflammation

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed history of the inflammatory event leading to hyperpigmentation

Applicable To

  • Hyperpigmentation following inflammation

Excludes

  • Chloasma (L81.1)
  • Other melanin hyperpigmentation (L81.4)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • History of resolved inflammation such as acne or eczema
  • Documentation of hyperpigmented areas at sites of prior inflammation

Code-Specific Risks

  • Incorrectly coding active inflammation instead of sequela
  • Omitting the underlying cause of inflammation

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies the resolved inflammatory condition.

Ancillary Codes

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

Acne vulgaris

L70.0
Use when PIH is secondary to acne.

Atopic dermatitis, unspecified

L20.9
Use when PIH is secondary to eczema.

Differential Codes

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

Chloasma

L81.1
Chloasma is characterized by symmetrical facial pigmentation, often hormonally triggered.

Other melanin hyperpigmentation

L81.4
Use for hyperpigmentation not linked to inflammation.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L81.0.

Impact

Clinical: Incomplete clinical picture., Regulatory: Potential audit flags., Financial: Denied claims due to incomplete documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document the resolved inflammatory condition.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate patient records and data reporting.

Mitigation Strategy

Code the active inflammatory condition separately and use L81.0 only for sequela.

Impact

Lack of detailed history linking PIH to inflammation.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation of the inflammatory event and its resolution.

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 Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Dermatology Progress Note

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • History of resolved inflammation
  • Description of hyperpigmented areas
  • Treatment plan

Example Documentation

PIH present on bilateral cheeks as sequela of severe acne vulgaris. Treated with tretinoin 0.05% cream. No active acne lesions observed.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Dark spots on face.
Good Documentation Example
3x2 cm hyperpigmented patch on left cheek, secondary to resolved second-degree burn.
Explanation
The good example provides specific size, location, and cause, improving clarity and coding accuracy.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation? Ask your questions below.

Ask about any ICD-10 CM code, or paste a medical note

We build tools for
clinician happiness.

Learn More at Freed.ai
Back to HomeBeta

Built by Freed

Try Freed for free for 7 days.

Learn more