ICD-10 Code L25.1 – Unspecified contact dermatitis due to drugs in contact with skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L25.1 – Unspecified contact dermatitis due to drugs in contact with skin
What it is
This code identifies contact dermatitis caused by a drug or medication that touched the skin, when the exact dermatitis type is not specified. Use it for a skin reaction linked to direct exposure, not ingestion or injection.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized redness, itching, burning, swelling, or a rash at the site of contact. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the record does not clearly describe the skin reaction.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents contact dermatitis from a drug applied to or handled by the skin, but does not name the reaction more specifically. It also fits cases where the medication exposure is clear, yet the dermatitis is not otherwise classified. Check documentation for the exact agent and site.
Do not use for
Do not use it for dermatitis due to food, inhaled substances, or systemic drug reactions. If the chart describes a more specific contact dermatitis type or a different cause, code that instead.
Coding tip
Confirm that the drug exposure was topical or skin contact related before assigning L25.1.