Diagnosis code L82.1 is a specific and billable code under the ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification) system, used for indicating a diagnosis of “Other seborrheic keratosis” for medical billing and reimbursement purposes. This code is essential for healthcare professionals and medical coders to accurately classify and document diagnoses related to common benign skin growths. The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM, which includes code L82.1, became effective on October 1, 2024, ensuring its relevance in current medical classifications. It’s important to note that while L82.1 is the American ICD-10-CM version, international versions might have variations.
What is Seborrheic Keratosis and Diagnosis Code L82.1?
Seborrheic keratosis is a prevalent benign skin tumor, particularly common in older adults. Diagnosis code L82.1 specifically refers to “Other seborrheic keratosis,” and is often used when the seborrheic keratosis is not specified as inflamed. The term “seborrheic keratosis NOS” (Not Otherwise Specified) is also applicable to this code, indicating cases where the type of seborrheic keratosis is not further detailed in the diagnosis.
These lesions are typically multiple and can appear on various parts of the body, including the face, chest, and shoulders. They are characterized as slightly elevated skin lesions, often brown or black in color, and can sometimes be mistaken for moles or warts by untrained individuals.
Clinical Aspects of Seborrheic Keratosis
Clinically, seborrheic keratoses are benign skin neoplasms that are more frequently observed in older individuals. They are not cancerous and pose no threat to health, but they can sometimes be cosmetically undesirable or cause discomfort if they become irritated.
Key features and approximate synonyms associated with seborrheic keratosis and diagnosis code L82.1 include:
- Senile Hyperkeratosis: This term reflects the appearance of thickened skin in older individuals, which is characteristic of seborrheic keratosis.
- Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra: This is considered a variant of seborrheic keratosis, presenting as multiple small, dark bumps primarily on the face and neck, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.
- Seborrheic Keratosis (general term): While L82.1 is “Other seborrheic keratosis,” understanding the general term is crucial as it encompasses the broader category of these skin lesions.
In some less common instances, benign eccrine poromas can manifest as multiple oval, brown-to-black plaques, mainly on the chest and back, and might also be classified under L82.1 if they align with the “Other seborrheic keratosis” description. The typical age of onset for these lesions is usually in the fourth or fifth decade of life.
ICD-10-CM Coding Context and History of L82.1
Diagnosis code L82.1 falls under the broader category of L82, which is designated for “Seborrheic keratosis” within the ICD-10-CM system. Reviewing the codes adjacent to L82.1 provides further context:
- L82.0 Inflamed seborrheic keratosis: This code is used when the seborrheic keratosis exhibits inflammation, distinguishing it from L82.1.
- L81-L86: These adjacent codes cover other disorders of pigmentation and epidermal thickening, helping to differentiate seborrheic keratosis from conditions like freckles (L81.2), café au lait spots (L81.3), and other skin lesions.
The code history of L82.1 shows that it was introduced in 2016 and has remained unchanged through the 2025 update, indicating its established and consistent use in medical coding since the inception of the non-draft ICD-10-CM. This stability is important for consistent data collection and analysis in healthcare.
Reimbursement and Clinical Documentation
For reimbursement claims with service dates on or after October 1, 2015, the use of ICD-10-CM codes, including L82.1, is mandatory. Accurate coding with L82.1 ensures that healthcare providers can properly document and bill for the diagnosis and management of “Other seborrheic keratosis.” This code aids in appropriate medical billing, statistical tracking of skin conditions, and facilitates effective communication among healthcare professionals regarding patient diagnoses.
In conclusion, diagnosis code L82.1 is a vital tool for classifying and documenting cases of “Other seborrheic keratosis.” Understanding its scope, clinical context, and coding history is crucial for healthcare providers, medical coders, and anyone involved in medical documentation and billing processes. Proper use of L82.1 contributes to accurate healthcare records and efficient reimbursement processes.
