Acne vulgaris

This code identifies the most common form of acne, characterized by the presence of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, and sometimes cysts or nodules, primarily on the face, neck, chest, and back. It results from the inflammation of pilosebaceous units due to factors like increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, bacterial proliferation (P. acnes), and inflammation.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of acne vulgaris, regardless of severity or specific lesion types present (e.g., mild comedonal acne, moderate papulopustular acne). Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the presence of characteristic acne lesions and a confirmed diagnosis.

• Do not use this code for other forms of acne, such as acne conglobata or acne fulminans, which have their own specific codes.
• If the acne is drug-induced, use the appropriate drug-induced acne code (L70.4) with an adverse effect code for the drug.
• Avoid using this code for acneiform eruptions that are not true acne vulgaris (e.g., rosacea, perioral dermatitis).