ICD-10 Code L98.1 – Factitial dermatitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.1 – Factitial dermatitis
What it is
Factitial dermatitis is skin damage caused by the patient’s own actions, such as scratching, rubbing, picking, or applying irritants. The lesions are self-induced rather than due to a primary skin disease.
Clinical signs
Findings often include excoriations, crusting, erosions, or irregular lesions in reachable areas. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L98.1 when the record clearly states factitial dermatitis, dermatitis artefacta, or self-inflicted skin lesions. It is appropriate when the clinician documents that the skin findings are intentionally or repeatedly produced by the patient. If the cause is uncertain, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ordinary eczema, contact dermatitis, or skin injury caused by another person. If the chart does not document self-infliction, do not assume factitial dermatitis.
Coding tip
Code L98.1 only when the provider links the lesions to self-inflicted behavior in the note.