L52: Erythema nodosum

L52 refers to Erythema nodosum, a category of dermatologic conditions marked by redness, swelling, or peeling of the skin. These disorders can result from immune hypersensitivity, infections, systemic disease, or drug reactions.

Symptoms

• Red, inflamed skin – Central to all erythematous conditions
• Itchy hives – Characteristic of urticaria (L50)
• Target-like lesions – Seen in erythema multiforme (L51)
• Tender red nodules – Often appear on the shins in erythema nodosum (L52)
• Widespread skin shedding – Associated with L49 exfoliative forms

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Erythema nodosum is clinical, aided by patient history, allergy testing, blood tests, and sometimes biopsy. Distribution, timing, and associated systemic symptoms guide the diagnosis and treatment plan.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code L52 is used by dermatologists, allergists, rheumatologists, and primary care physicians for evaluating allergic or inflammatory skin conditions, systemic involvement, and drug-related reactions.

Related Codes

• L49 – Exfoliation due to erythematous conditions according to extent of body surface involved
• L50 – Urticaria
• L51 – Erythema multiforme
• L53 – Other erythematous conditions
• L54 – Erythema in diseases classified elsewhere

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code L52?
A: It refers to Erythema nodosum, a skin condition involving redness, inflammation, hives, or nodules due to allergy, infection, or systemic disease.

Q2: What’s the difference between L51 and L52?
A: L51 (erythema multiforme) typically presents with target lesions, while L52 (erythema nodosum) features painful nodules, especially on the lower legs.

Q3: Is urticaria (L50) chronic?
A: It can be acute or chronic. Chronic urticaria lasts longer than 6 weeks and may need allergy testing or immunologic evaluation.

Q4: What causes exfoliation in L49?
A: Often due to drug reactions, severe eczema, or erythrodermic psoriasis involving large skin surface areas.

Q5: Who treats these disorders?
A: Dermatologists, allergists, and sometimes infectious disease or rheumatology specialists, depending on the underlying cause.

Conclusion

ICD10 code L52 ensures correct documentation and targeted treatment for Erythema nodosum, supporting accurate diagnosis, allergy investigation, and systemic disease monitoring.