Dermatology Coding Alert

Question: Our dermatologist used glycolic acid to remove actinic keratoses from around a patient's eyes and face. How should I code this?

Arkansas Subscriber

Answer: The procedure you describe is also known as a chemical peel. You should report this procedure with 15788 (Chemical peel, facial; epidermal) for the removal of wrinkles and abnormal pigmentation using a chemical agent.

However: If you receive a denial, check whether your dermatologist administered chemical peel treatment for the purpose of necessity or cosmetic reasons. Important: You should always code the diagnosis your physician provides for the chemical peel.

For instance, suppose, as in your case, the dermatologist [...]

- Published on 2012-01-19