Livedoid vasculitis

Livedoid vasculitis is a rare, chronic, thrombotic vasculopathy characterized by recurrent, painful ulcerations on the lower extremities, typically the ankles and feet. These ulcers heal with characteristic porcelain-white, atrophic scars known as atrophie blanche. The condition is primarily due to occlusion of small dermal vessels, leading to skin infarction.

Use this code for patients diagnosed with livedoid vasculitis, presenting with the classic painful ulcerations and subsequent atrophie blanche. Documentation should clearly state the diagnosis of livedoid vasculitis, often supported by clinical examination and sometimes skin biopsy showing thrombotic occlusion of dermal vessels without true inflammation.

• Differentiate from other forms of vasculitis; livedoid vasculitis is characterized by thrombosis, not inflammation.
• Do not confuse with livedo reticularis, which is a common skin finding and not a vasculitis.
• Code any associated complications, such as chronic ulcers (L97.-) or pain (R52.-), as secondary diagnoses.