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ICD-10 Coding for Sweats(L74.510, R61)

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

Also known as:

HyperhidrosisExcessive sweating

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Sweats

L74.5-L74.52Primary Range

Focal hyperhidrosis

Primary range for focal hyperhidrosis, including primary and secondary types.

Generalized hyperhidrosis

Used for generalized sweating conditions not limited to specific areas.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
L74.510Primary focal hyperhidrosis, axillaUse when hyperhidrosis is localized to the axilla and is primary.
  • Positive starch-iodine test
  • ≥50mg/min sweat production
R61Generalized hyperhidrosisUse when sweating is generalized and not limited to specific areas.
  • Night sweat diary
  • Negative for focal causes

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 excessive sweating

Essential facts and insights about Sweats

The ICD-10 code for excessive sweating is R61 for generalized hyperhidrosis and L74.5- for focal hyperhidrosis.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for sweats

Primary focal hyperhidrosis, axilla
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Localized sweating in axilla with no secondary cause

Applicable To

  • Axillary hyperhidrosis

Excludes

  • Generalized hyperhidrosis (R61)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Positive starch-iodine test
  • ≥50mg/min sweat production

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as generalized sweating

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies primary focal nature and affected area.

Ancillary Codes

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

Type 2 diabetes mellitus without complications

E11.9
Use when hyperhidrosis is secondary to diabetes.

Thyrotoxicosis, unspecified

E05.90
Use when hyperhidrosis is secondary to hyperthyroidism.

Differential Codes

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

Generalized hyperhidrosis

R61
Use R61 when sweating affects the entire body.

Primary focal hyperhidrosis, axilla

L74.510
Use L74.510 when sweating is localized to axilla.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Sweats to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L74.510.

Impact

Clinical: Leads to misdiagnosis or inappropriate treatment., Regulatory: Fails to meet documentation standards., Financial: May result in claim denials.

Mitigation Strategy

Detail specific areas affected, Include treatment history

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Use L74.5- codes for focal hyperhidrosis.

Impact

Using generalized codes for focal conditions.

Mitigation Strategy

Regular training on code differentiation.

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

Documentation Templates for Sweats

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

Primary focal hyperhidrosis

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • Affected area
  • Onset age
  • Family history
  • Treatment history

Example Documentation

Patient presents with primary focal hyperhidrosis affecting the axilla, first noted at age 15, with a positive family history and refractory to aluminum chloride.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Patient sweats a lot.
Good Documentation Example
Patient with 3-year history of excessive axillary sweating, unresponsive to topical treatments, impacting daily activities.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details on duration, treatment history, and impact.

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

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