Tuberculoid leprosy

This code represents the milder, non-progressive form of leprosy (Hansen's disease) characterized by a strong cell-mediated immune response. Patients typically present with a limited number of well-demarcated skin lesions, often with sensory loss, and enlarged peripheral nerves. Bacilli are usually absent or very sparse in tissue samples.

Assign this code when documentation clearly specifies tuberculoid leprosy. This diagnosis is typically confirmed by clinical presentation, histopathological examination of skin biopsies showing granulomas with few or no acid-fast bacilli, and nerve involvement. Use this code for active cases requiring treatment or follow-up.

• Differentiate from other forms of leprosy (e.g., lepromatous, borderline) based on clinical and histopathological findings.
• Ensure documentation specifies "tuberculoid" to avoid coding to unspecified leprosy.
• Consider additional codes for associated complications, such as nerve damage or deformities, if present and documented.