ICD-10 Code L24.6 – Irritant contact dermatitis due to food in contact with skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L24.6 – Irritant contact dermatitis due to food in contact with skin
What it is
This code identifies irritant contact dermatitis caused by food touching the skin. It describes a non-allergic inflammatory skin reaction from direct exposure, often on the hands or face.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include redness, dryness, burning, itching, or scaling at the contact site. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the note does not clearly link the rash to food exposure.
When to use this code
Use L24.6 when the provider documents dermatitis from a specific food irritant, such as repeated skin contact during food handling or preparation. You should also use it when the record clearly states irritant contact dermatitis due to food rather than a generalized rash. Check documentation if the cause is uncertain.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for allergic contact dermatitis, food allergy, or dermatitis with no documented irritant food exposure. If the skin reaction is described only as eczema or rash, check documentation before assigning L24.6.
Coding tip
Confirm the food trigger and the skin contact mechanism in the provider note before coding.