Find comprehensive information on hair loss diagnosis, including ICD-10 codes (alopecia areata, androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium), clinical documentation best practices, and healthcare provider resources. Learn about evaluating hair loss symptoms, differential diagnosis, and treatment options. This resource supports medical coding accuracy and improved patient care for hair loss conditions.
Also known as
Diseases of skin and subcutaneous tissue
Includes various hair and scalp disorders like alopecia.
Endocrine, nutritional and metabolic diseases
May include hair loss due to thyroid or hormonal issues.
Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue
Broader category encompassing skin and hair conditions.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is hair loss due to a medical condition?
Yes
Is it due to chemotherapy?
No
Is it male pattern baldness?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Hair loss, general |
| Androgenetic alopecia |
| Alopecia areata |
Using unspecified codes like L65.9 when a more specific diagnosis (e.g., androgenetic alopecia) is documented leads to inaccurate data and lost revenue.
Failing to code the underlying drug-induced alopecia (e.g., L66.1) as a secondary diagnosis impacts risk adjustment and quality metrics.
Overlooking documentation of related conditions (e.g., thyroid disorders, nutritional deficiencies) affects clinical documentation integrity and severity scores.
Patient presents with concerns regarding hair loss, medically termed alopecia. The patient reports experiencing thinning hair, noticeable shedding, or receding hairline. Onset, duration, and progression of hair loss were documented. Associated symptoms such as itching, scaling, pain, or changes in nail or skin texture were also queried and noted. Family history of hair loss, including pattern baldness or androgenetic alopecia, was reviewed. Current medications, including any over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and hormonal therapies, were documented. Recent illnesses, stressors, dietary changes, and significant weight fluctuations were also considered. Physical examination reveals scalp characteristics, including hair density, texture, and distribution pattern. Evidence of inflammation, erythema, scaling, or scarring was assessed. Hair pull test results were documented. Differential diagnoses considered include androgenetic alopecia, telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, traction alopecia, and other forms of hair loss. Assessment points towards a likely diagnosis of [Specific Diagnosis, e.g., Telogen Effluvium]. Plan includes further investigation with [Diagnostic tests if any, e.g., scalp biopsy, blood work for thyroid function, iron levels, etc.]. Patient education provided on potential causes of hair loss, management strategies, and treatment options including topical minoxidil, finasteride, or other relevant therapies. Follow-up appointment scheduled to monitor progress and adjust treatment plan as necessary. ICD-10 code [Appropriate ICD-10 code, e.g., L65.9 for Alopecia, unspecified] assigned.