Pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta

This diagnosis code represents an acute, self-limiting inflammatory skin condition characterized by a sudden eruption of small, red-brown papules that can develop into vesicles, pustules, or necrotic lesions, often leaving behind varioliform (pock-like) scars. It is a distinct dermatological disorder with a characteristic clinical presentation.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta (PLEVA), also known as Mucha-Habermann disease. This typically applies to patients presenting with the characteristic acute onset of polymorphic skin lesions consistent with this specific inflammatory dermatosis.

• Ensure the physician's documentation explicitly states "pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta" or "PLEVA."
• Do not confuse this with other forms of pityriasis, such as pityriasis rosea or pityriasis rubra pilaris, which have distinct codes.
• Code any associated symptoms or complications, such as secondary infection, separately if documented.