ICD-10: L70.5

The ICD-10 code L70.5 refers specifically to "Acne excoriee," a condition characterized by acne lesions that have been picked or scratched, leading to excoriation or skin damage. Understanding alternative names and related terms can be beneficial for healthcare professionals, coders, and researchers. Below is a detailed overview of alternative names and related terms associated with L70.5.

Alternative Names for Acne Excoriée

1. Excoriated Acne: This term emphasizes the act of scratching or picking at acne lesions, which is central to the condition.
2. Acne Vulgaris with Excoriation: This term may be used to describe cases where acne vulgaris is complicated by excoriation.
3. Psychogenic Excoriation: In some contexts, this term may be used when the excoriation is driven by psychological factors, although it is more commonly associated with a different condition (dermatillomania).
4. Acne with Secondary Lesions: This term highlights the secondary skin changes resulting from the excoriation of acne.

Related Terms

1. Acne: A general term for a skin condition that includes various types of lesions, such as comedones, papules, pustules, and cysts. The broader category includes L70.5.
2. Dermatillomania: A psychological condition characterized by compulsive skin picking, which can lead to excoriated acne among other skin issues.
3. Acneiform Eruptions: This term refers to skin eruptions that resemble acne but may have different underlying causes.
4. Pustular Acne: A type of acne that features pus-filled lesions, which may be excoriated, leading to L70.5.
5. Inflammatory Acne: This term encompasses acne that is red and inflamed, which can also be subject to excoriation.

Clinical Context

In clinical practice, it is essential to differentiate between various types of acne and their complications. Acne excoriee (L70.5) is often seen in patients who may have a history of skin picking, which can be associated with stress, anxiety, or other psychological conditions. Proper coding and understanding of this condition are crucial for effective treatment and management.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for ICD-10 code L70.5: Acne excoriee is vital for accurate diagnosis, treatment, and coding in medical records. Recognizing the psychological aspects and related conditions can also aid healthcare providers in offering comprehensive care to affected individuals. If you have further questions or need additional information on this topic, feel free to ask!

The ICD-10-CM code L70.5 refers specifically to "Acne excoriee," a condition characterized by acne lesions that have been picked or scratched, leading to excoriation. This condition is particularly common among adolescents and young adults, often resulting from the psychological urge to manipulate acne lesions, which can exacerbate the skin condition and lead to further complications.

Clinical Description of Acne Excoriée (L70.5)

Definition

Acne excoriee is a form of acne where the lesions are intentionally or compulsively scratched or picked at, resulting in skin damage. This behavior can stem from various factors, including anxiety, stress, or a psychological condition known as dermatillomania, where individuals feel compelled to pick at their skin.

Symptoms

The primary symptoms of acne excoriee include:
- Inflamed lesions: Red, swollen areas where acne has been picked at.
- Scarring: Potential for permanent scarring due to repeated trauma to the skin.
- Hyperpigmentation: Dark spots may develop in the areas of excoriation, particularly in individuals with darker skin tones.
- Secondary infections: Open wounds from picking can lead to bacterial infections, complicating the condition further.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of acne excoriee typically involves:
- Clinical examination: A healthcare provider will assess the skin for signs of acne and excoriation.
- Patient history: Understanding the patient's history of acne and any compulsive behaviors related to skin picking is crucial.
- Exclusion of other conditions: It is important to differentiate acne excoriee from other skin disorders that may present similarly.

Treatment

Management of acne excoriee focuses on both the physical and psychological aspects:
- Topical treatments: These may include retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid to treat underlying acne.
- Wound care: Proper care of excoriated areas to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Behavioral therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be effective in addressing the compulsive behavior associated with skin picking.
- Education: Patients are often educated about the importance of not picking at their skin and the potential consequences of such actions.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment and behavioral interventions, many individuals can manage their symptoms effectively. However, the tendency to pick at the skin can persist, necessitating ongoing support and management strategies.

Conclusion

ICD-10 code L70.5 for acne excoriee highlights a significant dermatological condition that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment. By addressing both the physical manifestations of the condition and the underlying psychological factors, healthcare providers can help patients achieve better skin health and improve their overall well-being. Understanding this condition is crucial for effective diagnosis and management, ensuring that patients receive the care they need to prevent further skin damage and complications.

The ICD-10-CM code L70.5 refers to "Acne excoriee," a specific type of acne characterized by the presence of lesions that have been excoriated or scratched. This condition is often associated with psychological factors, such as anxiety or obsessive-compulsive tendencies, leading individuals to pick at their skin. Below is a detailed overview of the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with acne excoriee.

Clinical Presentation

Definition and Overview

Acne excoriee is a form of acne where the lesions are not only present due to the typical acne process but are also exacerbated by the patient's behavior of picking or scratching at the affected areas. This can lead to further skin damage, scarring, and potential secondary infections.

Common Locations

• Face: Most commonly affects the cheeks, forehead, and chin.
• Back and Shoulders: Other areas may include the back and shoulders, particularly in cases where the patient has a history of acne in these regions.

Signs and Symptoms

Primary Symptoms

• Lesions: The primary lesions are typically papules, pustules, or nodules that are inflamed and may be filled with pus.
• Excoriations: Visible scratches or abrasions on the skin surface due to picking, which can lead to crusting or scabbing.
• Scarring: Chronic picking can result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or scarring, which may be permanent.

Associated Symptoms

• Itching or Discomfort: Patients may experience itching or a burning sensation in the affected areas.
• Psychological Symptoms: Many individuals may exhibit signs of anxiety or distress related to their skin condition, which can perpetuate the cycle of picking.

Patient Characteristics

Demographics

• Age: Acne excoriee is most commonly seen in adolescents and young adults, although it can occur at any age.
• Gender: While acne affects both genders, females may be more likely to engage in skin picking behaviors.

Psychological Factors

• History of Anxiety or OCD: Many patients have a history of anxiety disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which can contribute to the compulsive behavior of skin picking.
• Body Image Issues: Patients may have concerns about their appearance, leading to increased focus on perceived imperfections.

Behavioral Aspects

• Compulsive Picking: The behavior is often compulsive, with patients feeling an overwhelming urge to pick at their skin, which they may find difficult to control.
• Awareness of Behavior: Some patients may be aware that their behavior is harmful but feel unable to stop.

Conclusion

Acne excoriee (ICD-10 code L70.5) is a complex condition that combines dermatological and psychological elements. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics is crucial for effective diagnosis and treatment. Management often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including dermatological care and psychological support, to address both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition. Early intervention can help prevent scarring and improve the patient's quality of life.

The ICD-10 code L70.5 refers to "Acne excoriee," a specific type of acne characterized by the excoriation or picking of acne lesions, often leading to scarring or secondary infections. The diagnosis of acne excoriee involves several criteria that healthcare providers typically consider:

Clinical Presentation

1. History of Acne: Patients usually have a history of acne vulgaris, which may present as comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, or nodules.
2. Excoriation: The defining feature of acne excoriee is the presence of excoriated lesions. This means that the patient has intentionally or habitually picked at their acne, leading to open sores or scabs.
3. Location: Lesions are commonly found on the face, neck, and upper back, where acne is most prevalent.

Psychological Factors

1. Behavioral Assessment: Patients may exhibit compulsive behaviors related to skin picking, which can be associated with underlying psychological conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
2. Emotional Distress: The condition often leads to significant emotional distress, impacting the patient's quality of life and self-esteem.

Physical Examination

1. Inspection of Skin: A thorough examination of the skin is essential to identify the extent of excoriation and to differentiate it from other skin conditions.
2. Assessment of Scarring: The presence of scars or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may be noted, indicating chronicity and the severity of the condition.

Diagnostic Criteria

1. Exclusion of Other Conditions: It is crucial to rule out other dermatological conditions that may mimic acne or cause similar excoriated lesions, such as folliculitis or dermatitis.
2. Documentation: Proper documentation of the patient's history, physical examination findings, and any psychological evaluations is necessary to support the diagnosis and coding for L70.5.

Treatment Considerations

1. Multidisciplinary Approach: Treatment may involve dermatological interventions for acne management and psychological support for compulsive skin-picking behaviors.
2. Patient Education: Educating patients about the nature of their condition and the importance of avoiding picking can be beneficial in managing acne excoriee.

In summary, the diagnosis of acne excoriee (ICD-10 code L70.5) requires a comprehensive evaluation that includes clinical history, physical examination, and consideration of psychological factors. Proper documentation and exclusion of other conditions are essential for accurate coding and effective treatment planning[1][2][3].

When addressing the standard treatment approaches for ICD-10 code L70.5, which refers to acne excoriee, it is essential to understand both the condition itself and the various therapeutic options available. Acne excoriee is a form of acne characterized by the compulsive picking or scratching of acne lesions, leading to further skin damage and potential scarring. This condition often requires a multifaceted treatment approach that addresses both the physical symptoms and the underlying psychological factors.

Treatment Approaches for Acne Excoriée

1. Topical Treatments

Topical therapies are often the first line of treatment for acne excoriee. These may include:

• Retinoids: Medications such as tretinoin or adapalene help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. They promote cell turnover and can prevent new acne lesions from forming[1].
• Benzoyl Peroxide: This topical agent has antibacterial properties and helps to reduce acne-causing bacteria on the skin. It also aids in preventing clogged pores[2].
• Salicylic Acid: Known for its exfoliating properties, salicylic acid helps to clear out pores and reduce inflammation, making it effective for treating acne[3].

2. Oral Medications

In more severe cases or when topical treatments are insufficient, oral medications may be prescribed:

• Antibiotics: Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline or minocycline can help reduce inflammation and bacterial load in moderate to severe acne cases[4].
• Hormonal Treatments: For females, hormonal therapies such as oral contraceptives can regulate hormones that contribute to acne development[5].
• Isotretinoin: In cases of severe acne that do not respond to other treatments, isotretinoin may be considered. This powerful medication can significantly reduce oil production and prevent future breakouts[6].

3. Psychological Support and Behavioral Therapy

Given that acne excoriee often involves compulsive behaviors, addressing the psychological aspects is crucial:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of therapy can help patients manage the compulsive behaviors associated with acne excoriee. It focuses on changing negative thought patterns and developing healthier coping mechanisms[7].
• Support Groups: Engaging in support groups can provide emotional support and shared experiences, which may help individuals feel less isolated in their struggles with acne excoriee[8].

4. Skin Care Regimen

A consistent and gentle skin care routine is vital for managing acne excoriee:

• Gentle Cleansers: Using non-comedogenic and gentle cleansers can help maintain skin health without exacerbating acne[9].
• Moisturizers: Non-comedogenic moisturizers can help keep the skin hydrated, which is essential, especially when using drying acne treatments[10].

5. Procedural Interventions

In some cases, dermatological procedures may be beneficial:

• Chemical Peels: These can help exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of acne scars[11].
• Laser Therapy: Certain laser treatments can target acne lesions and improve skin texture, helping to reduce the visibility of scars[12].

Conclusion

The treatment of acne excoriee (ICD-10 code L70.5) requires a comprehensive approach that combines topical and oral medications, psychological support, and a consistent skincare regimen. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition, patients can achieve better outcomes and improve their overall skin health. It is essential for individuals suffering from this condition to consult with a healthcare provider to tailor a treatment plan that best suits their needs.