ICD-10 Coding for Urticaria(L50.0, L50.1, L50.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Urticaria. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Urticaria
L50.0-L50.9Primary Range
Urticaria and related conditions
This range includes all types of urticaria, from allergic to idiopathic.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L50.0 | Allergic urticaria | Use when urticaria is confirmed to be allergic in nature. |
|
| L50.1 | Idiopathic urticaria | Use when urticaria persists for ≥6 weeks without identifiable cause. |
|
| L50.2 | Urticaria due to cold and heat | Use when urticaria is triggered by temperature changes. |
|
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 allergic urticaria
Essential facts and insights about Urticaria
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for urticaria
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Confirmed IgE-mediated reaction.
Applicable To
- IgE-mediated reactions
Excludes
- Non-allergic urticaria
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive IgE RAST/skin prick test to specific allergen
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrectly coding non-allergic urticaria as allergic.
Coding Notes
- Ensure allergy testing is documented.
L50.1 - Idiopathic urticaria
Use when urticaria persists for ≥6 weeks without identifiable cause.
Applicable To
- Chronic spontaneous urticaria
Excludes
- Allergic urticaria
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Normal CBC, CRP <10 mg/L, TSH 0.4-4.0 mIU/L
Coding Notes
Document all tests conducted to rule out causes.
L50.2 - Urticaria due to cold and heat
Use when urticaria is triggered by temperature changes.
Applicable To
- Cold-induced urticaria
Excludes
- Heat rash
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Cold provocation test
Coding Notes
Document specific temperature triggers.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Allergy, unspecified
T78.4-Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Urticaria to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L50.0.
Impact
Clinical: Inaccurate diagnosis of allergic urticaria., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure all allergy tests are documented in the patient's record.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to claim denials., Compliance: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data reporting.
Mitigation Strategy
Use L50.1 for chronic idiopathic cases.
Impact
High risk of audit if unspecified codes are used when specific codes are available.
Mitigation Strategy
Always use the most specific code available.
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 Urticaria, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Urticaria
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Urticaria. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Chronic urticaria management
Specialty: DermatologyRequired Elements
- History of present illness
- Triggers
- Treatment response
- Physical examination findings
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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