Allergic contact dermatitis due to adhesives

This code signifies an inflammatory skin reaction resulting from direct contact with an adhesive substance. It is a delayed hypersensitivity response, manifesting as erythema, pruritus, vesicles, and sometimes blistering, specifically triggered by components within glues, tapes, or patches.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of contact dermatitis where the causative agent is identified as an adhesive. This includes reactions to medical tapes, bandages, ostomy appliances, or other adhesive-containing products. Supporting documentation should specify the allergic nature of the reaction and the adhesive as the trigger.

• Ensure the documentation differentiates between irritant contact dermatitis and allergic contact dermatitis; this code is specific to allergic reactions.
• Do not use this code if the reaction is due to a substance other than an adhesive; refer to other L23.x codes for different allergens.
• Consider an external cause code (e.g., T75.8xxA) if the adhesive exposure was accidental or related to a medical device malfunction, in addition to the dermatitis code.