ICD-10 Code L63 – Alopecia areata (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L63 – Alopecia areata
What it is
L63 identifies alopecia areata, an autoimmune form of hair loss that usually causes sudden, patchy loss of scalp or body hair. The diagnosis is used when documentation supports this specific nonscarring pattern.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include smooth, round or oval patches of hair loss with preserved skin surface. You may also see exclamation-point hairs, eyebrow or eyelash loss, or more extensive involvement; clinical features vary, refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L63 when the provider documents alopecia areata, including patchy, ophiasis, totalis, or universalis forms if specified in the record. Code it when the note clearly distinguishes this condition from other causes of hair loss, such as scarring alopecia or trichotillomania.
Do not use for
Do not use L63 for nonspecific hair thinning, androgenic alopecia, or hair loss due to chemotherapy, trauma, infection, or scarring disorders. Check documentation if the cause or type of alopecia is not clearly stated.
Coding tip
Look for the exact term “alopecia areata” in the assessment, not just “hair loss,” before assigning L63.