Contact dermatitis and other eczema due to drugs and medicines in contact with skin

This code describes an inflammatory skin reaction, characterized by redness, itching, and often blistering or scaling, that occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with a drug or medicinal substance. It is a localized allergic or irritant response, distinct from systemic drug reactions.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a skin rash or dermatitis resulting from topical application or direct skin exposure to a medication. This includes reactions to medicated creams, ointments, patches, or solutions. Documentation should specify the drug involved and confirm direct skin contact as the cause.

• Differentiate from systemic drug allergies (e.g., urticaria, anaphylaxis) which are coded elsewhere.
• Ensure the documentation specifies "contact" with the drug, not ingestion or injection.
• Consider an E-code to identify the specific drug causing the adverse effect, if known and documented.