Lupus erythematosus

This code represents a chronic autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks its own tissues and organs, leading to widespread inflammation and tissue damage. It can affect various body systems, including joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs.

Use this code for a general diagnosis of lupus erythematosus when the specific type (e.g., systemic, discoid, drug-induced) is not documented or is not yet definitively diagnosed. This code is appropriate for initial encounters or when the physician's documentation broadly refers to "lupus."

• Do not use this code if a more specific type of lupus (e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus, discoid lupus erythematosus) is documented; instead, use the appropriate subcategory.
• Always review the physician's notes for any mention of organ involvement or specific manifestations, which may require additional codes.
• This code is often a primary diagnosis, but can be secondary if another condition is the focus of the encounter and lupus is a co-morbidity.