Changes in skin texture

This code signifies a noticeable alteration in the tactile quality or surface characteristics of the skin, such as roughness, scaling, induration, or thinning. It indicates a non-specific dermatological finding that may be a symptom of an underlying condition rather than a definitive diagnosis itself.

Use this code when documentation describes changes in skin texture without a more specific diagnosis for the underlying cause. This is appropriate for findings like "rough skin," "scaly patches," "thickened skin," or "atrophic skin changes" when a definitive dermatosis (e.g., psoriasis, eczema) has not been established or is not the primary focus of the encounter. Supporting documentation would include physician notes detailing the observed textural changes.

• Always seek a more specific diagnosis if available; this code is for unspecified textural changes.
• Do not use this code if a definitive skin condition (e.g., dermatitis, ichthyosis, scleroderma) is diagnosed, as those codes are more precise.
• Consider sequencing this code as a secondary diagnosis if the primary reason for the encounter is related to evaluating or treating the underlying cause of the skin texture change.