Unspecified hypertrophic and atrophic conditions of skin

This code represents a general category for conditions characterized by either an overgrowth (hypertrophy) or a wasting away (atrophy) of skin tissue, where the specific type or cause is not documented. It indicates a change in skin thickness or texture without further diagnostic detail.

Use this code when the medical record documents a hypertrophic or atrophic skin condition, but lacks specificity regarding its nature, cause, or a more precise diagnosis. This might occur when a clinician notes "skin atrophy" or "hypertrophic skin changes" without further elaboration or when a definitive diagnosis is pending.

• Avoid using this code if a more specific ICD-9-CM code for a hypertrophic or atrophic skin condition is available and supported by documentation.
• Query the provider for more specific details if possible, such as the type of hypertrophy (e.g., keloid, lichen simplex chronicus) or atrophy (e.g., senile atrophy, post-inflammatory atrophy).
• This code is a "catch-all" for unspecified conditions; strive for higher specificity whenever clinical documentation allows.