Alopecia mucinosa

This code represents alopecia mucinosa, also known as follicular mucinosis, a rare inflammatory skin disorder characterized by mucin deposition within hair follicles and sebaceous glands, leading to patches of hair loss. It can present as primary (idiopathic) or secondary to other dermatological conditions, and may involve single or multiple lesions.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of alopecia mucinosa or follicular mucinosis. This diagnosis is typically confirmed by skin biopsy demonstrating mucin deposition in the follicular epithelium. It applies to both the benign, self-limiting forms and those associated with underlying lymphoproliferative disorders.

• Differentiate from other forms of alopecia; this code is specific to mucinosis.
• Review pathology reports for definitive diagnosis of mucin deposition.
• Consider additional codes for any underlying conditions if the alopecia mucinosa is secondary.