Lepromatous leprosy

This code identifies the most severe and contagious form of Hansen's disease, characterized by widespread skin lesions, nerve damage, and potential involvement of internal organs. It results from a robust but ineffective immune response to Mycobacterium leprae, leading to high bacterial loads and diffuse tissue infiltration.

Assign this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of lepromatous leprosy. This typically includes findings such as diffuse skin thickening, nodules, leonine facies, and extensive peripheral neuropathy, often confirmed by biopsy showing numerous acid-fast bacilli.

• Differentiate carefully from other forms of leprosy (e.g., tuberculoid, borderline) based on clinical presentation and histopathology.
• Ensure documentation specifies "lepromatous" to support this specific subtype.
• Code any associated complications, such as neuropathic ulcers or deformities, separately.