Pityriasis rosea

This code represents an acute, self-limiting inflammatory skin condition characterized by a distinctive rash. The rash typically begins with a single, larger "herald patch," followed by smaller, oval, pinkish-red patches that often appear in a "Christmas tree" pattern on the trunk.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of pityriasis rosea. This diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance and distribution of the rash. Supporting documentation would include physician notes describing the herald patch and subsequent generalized eruption.

• Do not confuse with other papulosquamous disorders like tinea corporis or secondary syphilis, which require different codes.
• Ensure the physician's documentation specifies "pityriasis rosea" to support this code.
• This is a definitive diagnosis code; avoid using non-specific rash codes if pityriasis rosea is confirmed.