Psoriasis ICD-10-CM Codes
Explore ICD-10 codes used for Psoriasis, facilitating precise diagnosis and treatment—a comprehensive guide for healthcare professionals and patients alike.
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin condition that presents as inflamed, itchy, and scaly patches. These patches can appear anywhere on the body but are commonly found on the elbows, knees, scalp, and lower back. This skin disorder can be mild, causing small areas of rash-like spots, or severe, covering large body areas.
For healthcare providers, accurate diagnosis, treatment, and billing of this condition are crucial. This is where ICD-10 codes come into play. The International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), is a system used worldwide by physicians and healthcare providers to classify and code all diagnoses, symptoms, and procedures. Here are some of the frequently used ICD-10 codes for psoriasis:
- L40.0 - This code represents Psoriasis Vulgaris or plaque psoriasis, the most common psoriasis. Patients with this type have raised, reddish skin patches covered by silvery-white scales. These patches or plaques can be painful and itchy, causing discomfort to the patient.
- L40.1 - Generalized Pustular Psoriasis, a rare, severe form of psoriasis that results in widespread pus-filled blisters, is denoted by this code. This form of psoriasis can cause serious complications if not treated promptly.
- L40.2 - Acrodermatitis Continua, an even rarer form of pustular psoriasis affecting the hands and feet, is represented by this code. It's characterized by skin lesions filled with non-infectious pus.
- L40.3 - Pustulosis Palmaris et Plantaris, a chronic recurrent pustular dermatosis localized on the palms and soles, is coded as L40.3. This variant often results in scaling and peeling skin on the hands and feet.
- L40.4 - Guttate Psoriasis, characterized by small, drop-shaped lesions, is indicated by this code. It often starts in childhood or young adulthood and can be triggered by a strep infection.
- L40.9 - This code is used when the specific type of psoriasis is not documented, indicating psoriasis unspecified. It's a general code used in cases where the exact psoriasis type is unknown.
Understanding these codes is critical in ensuring accurate documentation and effective treatment planning. For a more in-depth understanding, check out our Psoriasis ICD Codes.
Which Psoriasis ICD codes are Billable:
- L40.0 - Yes
- L40.1 - Yes
- L40.2 - Yes
- L40.3 - Yes
- L40.4 - Yes
- L40.9 - Yes
Clinical Information
- Psoriasis is a chronic, non-infectious disease primarily affecting the skin and joints. It's an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy skin cells, leading to rapid skin cell turnover and the formation of patches.
- The most distinctive manifestation of psoriasis is red, inflamed, itchy, and scaly patches of skin. These patches, or plaques, are often covered with white or silver scales and can be painful or cause a burning sensation. They commonly appear on high-friction areas like the knees, elbows, and scalp but can affect any body part.
- The severity of psoriasis varies greatly from person to person. Some people may have minor, localized lesions that affect only small areas of their skin, like the scalp or nails. Others may experience generalized plaques covering large portions of their body or even erythrodermic psoriasis. This severe form leads to widespread redness and inflammation over most of the body's surface.
- Psoriasis is not just a skin disorder. It's linked with several comorbid conditions and often occurs alongside other health issues. One of the most common is psoriatic arthritis, which affects up to 30% of individuals with psoriasis and causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling.
- Psoriasis patients are also at an increased risk of developing certain types of lymphomas and cardiovascular diseases, likely due to chronic inflammation. Furthermore, digestive disorders like Crohn's disease are more prevalent among psoriasis patients.
- The psychological impact of psoriasis should not be underestimated. Many people with this condition experience depression and anxiety due to discomfort and visible skin changes. Social stigma and self-consciousness about their appearance can exacerbate these mental health issues.
Understanding the clinical aspects of psoriasis can help better manage and treat this multifaceted condition.
Synonyms Include:
- Scaly Dermatoses
- Psoriatic Arthropathy
- Plaque Psoriasis
- Inverse Psoriasis
- Erythrodermic Psoriasis
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Commonly asked questions
A Psoriasis ICD code should be used when diagnosing patients with psoriasis, documenting their medical records, or preparing a bill for insurance purposes.
Treatments can range from topical treatments (creams), light therapy, and systemic medications, depending on the type and severity of the psoriasis.
A diagnosis code for psoriasis provides a universally accepted way of identifying and categorizing a patient's psoriasis. It helps healthcare providers accurately diagnose, treat, and bill for their services.
