Dermatographic urticaria

This code represents a form of physical urticaria characterized by a localized, transient wheal and flare response that appears on the skin after stroking or scratching. It is a common, benign condition where mast cells degranulate in response to mechanical stimuli, releasing histamine and other mediators.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of dermatographic urticaria, also known as dermographism or "skin writing." This diagnosis is typically made clinically based on the characteristic skin reaction to mechanical pressure, often without the need for extensive testing.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "dermatographic" to differentiate from other forms of urticaria.
• Do not confuse with other physical urticarias like cold urticaria or cholinergic urticaria, which have distinct triggers.
• This code is for the diagnosis itself; any associated symptoms (e.g., pruritus) would be coded separately if significant and not inherent to the condition.