ICD-10 Code L81.4 – Other melanin hyperpigmentation (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L81.4 – Other melanin hyperpigmentation
What it is
L81.4 identifies increased melanin-related skin darkening that is not classified under a more specific diagnosis. Use it for documented hyperpigmentation when the record does not support a narrower code.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized or diffuse darker skin patches, usually brown to black in color. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the cause, distribution, and whether the change is new or longstanding.
When to use this code
Use L81.4 when the provider documents other melanin hyperpigmentation, pigmentary darkening, or similar wording without naming a more specific disorder. It is also appropriate when the note describes hyperpigmentation but does not identify a cause or subtype. Check documentation for the exact term used.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, or other specifically named pigment disorders when those are documented. Do not assign it for generalized skin discoloration without evidence of melanin hyperpigmentation.
Coding tip
Match the code to the provider’s exact description and avoid defaulting to L81.4 when a more specific pigment disorder is recorded.