Is ICD-10-CM code L85 billable?

No, L85 (Other epidermal thickening) 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 L85 belong to?

L85 belongs to Chapter 12 of the ICD-10-CM tabular list: L00–L99 (Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue).

L85Not billable, use a more specific code below

Other epidermal thickening

In Other disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (L80-L99), chapter 12: Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue

6 billable codes under L85: none are a CC or MCC; none map to an HCC.

Instructional notes

Excludes2: not included here, code separately if applicable

hypertrophic disorders of the skin (L91.-)

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 L85

L85 can't be used on a claim. Pick a billable code below; grey headings group them.

L85 MS-DRGs

As the principal diagnosis, all 6 billable codes under L85 group to MS-DRG 606 or 607 (v44.0). Which one applies depends on procedures performed, secondary diagnoses (CC/MCC), and the patient's age and discharge status.

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.