Pseudopelade

This code represents pseudopelade, a rare, chronic inflammatory scalp disorder characterized by progressive, irreversible hair loss. It results in smooth, atrophic patches of skin with absent follicular openings, often described as "footprints in the snow." This condition is a form of primary cicatricial alopecia.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of pseudopelade. This diagnosis is typically made clinically, often supported by dermoscopy and sometimes by scalp biopsy showing lymphocytic inflammation and follicular destruction leading to scarring. Use for patients presenting with characteristic patchy, scarring alopecia.

• Differentiate from other forms of cicatricial alopecia; pseudopelade is a specific diagnosis.
• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "pseudopelade" and not a more general scarring alopecia.
• Do not code for non-scarring alopecias (e.g., alopecia areata) or other specific types of scarring alopecia unless pseudopelade is explicitly diagnosed.