Other cicatricial alopecia

This code represents a form of permanent hair loss characterized by scarring and destruction of hair follicles, not otherwise specified or classified under more specific cicatricial alopecia codes. The scarring prevents future hair growth in the affected areas of the scalp.

Use this code when documentation indicates a diagnosis of cicatricial alopecia that does not fit into other specific categories (e.g., lichen planopilaris, discoid lupus erythematosus, folliculitis decalvans). This code is appropriate when the specific underlying cause of the scarring alopecia is unknown or not explicitly documented.

• Ensure the documentation clearly states "cicatricial alopecia" and specifies that it is not one of the more common, separately coded types.
• Avoid using this code if a more specific diagnosis for cicatricial alopecia is available and documented.
• Query the provider if the documentation simply states "alopecia" and scarring is suspected but not explicitly confirmed as cicatricial.