Lipodystrophy

This code represents a group of disorders characterized by abnormal or degenerative conditions of adipose tissue. It involves either a generalized or partial loss of fat (lipoatrophy) or an abnormal accumulation of fat (lipohypertrophy) in specific body regions. These conditions can be congenital, acquired, or associated with other medical conditions or treatments.

Use this code when documentation specifies a diagnosis of lipodystrophy, regardless of its etiology (e.g., congenital, acquired, HIV-associated, or insulin-induced). This code is appropriate for both lipoatrophy and lipohypertrophy. Supporting documentation should clearly state the diagnosis of lipodystrophy.

• Differentiate from generalized obesity (278.00) or localized adiposity not specified as lipodystrophy.
• If the lipodystrophy is drug-induced (e.g., antiretroviral therapy), consider an additional E-code to identify the causative agent.
• For insulin-induced lipodystrophy, also consider codes for diabetes mellitus if applicable, and an E-code for adverse effect of insulin.