Contact dermatitis and other eczema due to oils and greases

This code signifies an inflammatory skin reaction characterized by redness, itching, and sometimes blistering or scaling, specifically caused by direct exposure to various oils and greases. It represents a type of irritant or allergic contact dermatitis where the offending agents are petroleum-based products, industrial lubricants, or other fatty substances.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of contact dermatitis resulting from exposure to oils, greases, or similar lipid-based compounds. This is commonly seen in occupational settings, such as mechanics, machinists, or industrial workers, where skin contact with these substances is frequent.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "oils" or "greases" as the causative agent; otherwise, a more general contact dermatitis code may be appropriate.
• Consider an external cause code (E-code) to further specify the circumstances of the exposure, especially in occupational health settings.
• Differentiate from allergic contact dermatitis due to other substances (e.g., plants, chemicals) or irritant dermatitis from non-oil/grease agents.