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ICD Hub / Diseases of the ear or mastoid process (H60–H95) / AA12 - Chondrodermatitis nodularis
ICD-11

ICD-11 Codes
for AA12 - Chondrodermatitis nodularis
Teodor Jurukovski January 1, 1970
Fact checked by: Teodor Jurukovski
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Understanding Chondrodermatitis Nodularis

Chondrodermatitis nodularis is a common, non-neoplastic inflammatory condition affecting the skin and cartilage of the ear. It typically presents as a painful nodule or ulcer, most frequently located on the helix or antihelix of the ear. This condition arises due to ischaemia caused by focal pressure on the ear's skin and underlying cartilage. The ICD-11 code for this condition is AA12.

Alternative Names for Chondrodermatitis Nodularis

This condition is also widely known by several other terms, including Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis and CNH. Historically, it was sometimes referred to as Winkler disease, though this term is no longer recommended.

Factors Contributing to Chondrodermatitis Nodularis

The development of chondrodermatitis nodularis is often linked to external factors. Chronic pressure on the ear, such as from sleeping in a particular position, prolonged use of hearing aids, headphones, or face masks, is a primary cause. Other contributing factors include exposure to cold weather and solar damage. Anatomical features of the ear, such as limited subcutaneous tissue and a scarcity of small blood vessels in the dermis, can predispose individuals to this condition. In approximately 15% of cases, chondrodermatitis nodularis may be associated with underlying autoimmune or connective tissue diseases.

Recognising the Signs of Chondrodermatitis Nodularis

The hallmark symptom of chondrodermatitis nodularis is a distinctly painful, raised bump or nodule on the ear, typically on the helix or antihelix. This lesion is often skin-coloured and may feature a central crater or a crusted surface. Over time, chronic changes can lead to prominent central ulceration with raised edges. While it can appear concerning and clinically suspicious for malignancy, it is fundamentally an inflammatory process.

Diagnosing Chondrodermatitis Nodularis

Diagnosis of chondrodermatitis nodularis is usually made through a combination of clinical examination, dermoscopic assessment, and sometimes histological evaluation. Key diagnostic criteria, as defined by the WHO, include the presence of a cup-shaped crater containing necrotic debris and fibrin, extending to involve the superficial cartilage.

Treatment and Management of Chondrodermatitis Nodularis

Management strategies for chondrodermatitis nodularis aim to relieve pressure and reduce inflammation. First-line treatments often involve pressure-relieving devices. If these are not effective, surgical intervention is considered the most effective option, offering the highest cure rates. Other therapeutic approaches may include topical nitroglycerin therapy, CO2 laser treatment, photodynamic therapy, and various injections.

ICD-11 Coding for Chondrodermatitis Nodularis

The official ICD-11 code for Chondrodermatitis nodularis is AA12. This code can be further specified using post-coordination to indicate laterality (e.g., left, right, bilateral, or unspecified unilateral) and the precise anatomical site involved on the ear, such as the helix or antihelix. Accurate coding is essential for medical documentation and billing purposes. This ICD-11 code for chondrodermatitis nodularis is reportable for diagnostic purposes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the ICD-11 classification for Chondrodermatitis nodularis?
Chondrodermatitis nodularis is classified under the ICD-11 code AA12.
How is laterality specified for Chondrodermatitis nodularis in ICD-11?
ICD-11 supports post-coordination for Chondrodermatitis nodularis (AA12) to specify laterality, including options for left, right, bilateral, or unspecified.
What are the recognized terms for ICD-11 code AA12?
ICD-11 code AA12 is for Chondrodermatitis nodularis. Other recognized terms include Chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis.
What is the primary use of post-coordination for ICD-11 code AA12?
Post-coordination for ICD-11 code AA12 (Chondrodermatitis nodularis) is used to add specific details, such as laterality, to the classification.
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