Is ICD-10-CM code L53 billable?

No, L53 (Other erythematous conditions) is a non-billable ICD-10-CM code. It must be coded to a more specific subcategory before it can be used for reimbursement.

What chapter does ICD-10-CM code L53 belong to?

L53 belongs to Chapter 12 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: L00–L99 (Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue).

L53Not billable, use a more specific code below

Other erythematous conditions

In Urticaria and erythema (L49-L54), chapter 12: Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue

6 billable codes under L53: 4 are a CC; none map to an HCC.A CC or MCC (major CC) is a secondary diagnosis that raises the MS-DRG payment.

Instructional notes

Excludes1: not coded here, use a different code

erythema ab igne (L59.0)
erythema due to external agents in contact with skin (L23-L25)
erythema intertrigo (L30.4)

Also applies, from Urticaria and erythema (L49-L54)

These notes sit on L49-L54 and apply to every code under it, including L53.

Excludes1: not coded here, use a different code

Lyme disease (A69.2-)
rosacea (L71.-)

Official coding guidelines

From the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting, FY 2027 (CMS and NCHS). Links open the PDF at the right page.

Covers assigning pressure ulcer codes by site and stage, including unstageable, healing, healed, and progressing ulcers, and coding healing or progressing non-pressure chronic ulcers.

Pressure ulcer stage codes (page 58)
Non-Pressure Chronic Ulcers (page 60)

Read Section I.C.12 (page 58)

All codes under L53

L53 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

L53 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, the billable codes under L53 group to MS-DRG 595, 596, 791, 793, 606, or 607 (v44.0). Which one applies depends on procedures performed, secondary diagnoses (CC/MCC), and the patient's age and discharge status.

DRG 595 Major Skin Disorders with MCC (4 of 6 codes)
DRG 596 Major Skin Disorders without MCC (4 of 6 codes)
DRG 791 Prematurity with Major Problems (4 of 6 codes)
DRG 793 Full Term Neonate with Major Problems (4 of 6 codes)
DRG 606 Minor Skin Disorders with MCC (2 of 6 codes)
DRG 607 Minor Skin Disorders without MCC (2 of 6 codes)

About the condition

Plain-language background from MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine), not coding guidance.

Skin Conditions

Your skin is your body's largest organ. It covers the entire outside of your body. There are many ways that your skin protects your body and helps keep you healthy. For example, it:

Code history

Valid since FY2016, when ICD-10-CM took effect on October 1, 2015. No changes since.