Allergic contact dermatitis due to dyes

This code signifies an inflammatory skin reaction resulting from direct skin contact with a dye, to which the individual has developed an allergic hypersensitivity. The dermatitis typically presents as erythema, pruritus, vesicles, or papules at the site of contact with the offending dye.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates an allergic contact dermatitis and the specific causative agent is identified as a dye. This includes reactions to hair dyes, fabric dyes, or dyes used in cosmetics or other products. Supporting documentation should specify the allergic nature of the reaction and the dye as the precipitating factor.

• Ensure the documentation differentiates between irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis; this code is specific to allergic reactions.
• Always seek to identify the specific type of dye if documented, though this code is broad enough for "dyes" in general.
• Consider an external cause code (e.g., from Chapter 20) to further specify the circumstances of the exposure, if applicable and documented.