Impetiginization of other dermatoses

This code describes a secondary bacterial infection, specifically impetigo, that has developed on top of a pre-existing skin condition. It indicates that an initial dermatosis has become complicated by the characteristic crusting, blistering, and superficial pustules of impetigo.

Apply this code when documentation clearly states "impetiginized" in conjunction with another skin disorder, or when a pre-existing dermatosis is noted to have secondary impetiginous changes. This code requires a primary diagnosis for the underlying dermatosis to be coded first.

• Always sequence the underlying dermatosis code first, followed by this code.
• Do not use this code for primary impetigo; use codes from the L01.0- category for primary impetigo.
• Ensure the medical record explicitly links the impetigo to a pre-existing skin condition.