ICD-10 Code L81.0 – Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L81.0 – Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation
What it is
Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation is darkening of the skin that appears after inflammation or injury. It reflects excess pigment left behind after the original condition has healed.
Clinical signs
You may see flat brown, gray, or black patches at sites of prior rash, acne, trauma, or other skin inflammation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L81.0 when the provider documents postinflammatory hyperpigmentation as the diagnosis or reason for the visit. It fits cases where the active inflammatory skin problem is no longer the focus, and pigment change is the condition being evaluated. Check documentation if the discoloration is due to another cause.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for general skin discoloration without a documented postinflammatory cause. It is also not appropriate when the record identifies a different pigment disorder or an active rash as the primary condition.
Coding tip
Assign L81.0 only when the chart links the pigmentation change to prior inflammation or injury.