Actinic keratosis

This code represents a precancerous skin lesion caused by chronic sun exposure. Actinic keratoses are typically rough, scaly patches that can range in color from skin-toned to reddish-brown, and are most commonly found on sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, and hands. These lesions have the potential to progress to squamous cell carcinoma.

Use this code when documenting a diagnosis of actinic keratosis identified during a dermatological examination. This code is appropriate for both initial diagnoses and follow-up encounters for existing lesions. Documentation should clearly describe the presence of these characteristic sun-induced skin changes.

• Ensure documentation specifies "actinic" keratosis to differentiate from other types of keratoses.
• Do not confuse with seborrheic keratosis, which is a benign lesion and coded differently.
• If squamous cell carcinoma is also present, sequence the malignancy first, followed by this code for any co-existing actinic keratoses.