ICD-10 Code L25.5 – Unspecified contact dermatitis due to plants, except food (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L25.5 – Unspecified contact dermatitis due to plants, except food
What it is
L25.5 identifies contact dermatitis caused by exposure to plants, excluding food plants, when the specific plant or dermatitis type is not further specified. It is used for skin inflammation linked to plant contact, such as brushing against irritant vegetation.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized redness, itching, swelling, and sometimes vesicles or a rash at the contact site. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the record does not clearly describe the plant exposure or reaction pattern.
When to use this code
Use L25.5 when the clinician documents contact dermatitis from a plant, but does not name the plant or provide a more specific dermatitis diagnosis. It also fits cases where the record says “plant dermatitis” or similar wording without further detail. Confirm that the exposure was to a non-food plant.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for dermatitis caused by food plants, which belongs elsewhere, or for skin reactions from chemicals, insects, or other non-plant exposures. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Coding tip
Capture the exact plant exposure when documented; if the record only says “rash” or “dermatitis,” you may need additional specificity before assigning L25.5.