L74.512 Primary focal hyperhidrosis, palms

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Primary focal hyperhidrosis, palms
- Commonly known as palmar hyperhidrosis.

#### Summary
- Palmar hyperhidrosis is a condition characterized by excessive sweating specifically localized to the palms of the hands. This can lead to difficulties in daily activities and significant emotional distress.

#### Causes
- The exact cause of primary focal hyperhidrosis is not completely understood. It is believed to involve overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system, which controls sweat glands.
- Genetic factors can also play a role, as the condition often runs in families.

#### Risk Factors
- Family history is a significant risk factor, as the condition is often inherited.
- Most commonly affects young adults and teenagers.

#### Symptoms
- Persistent and excessive sweating of the palms.
- May be accompanied by socially awkward situations due to wet palms, affecting personal and professional interactions.

#### Diagnosis
- Diagnosis is primarily clinical through a patient's description of symptoms and medical history.
- Physical examination to confirm the presence of excessive sweating.
- In some cases, a starch-iodine test might be used to visually highlight areas of excess sweat production.

#### Treatment Options
- Topical treatments such as aluminum chloride antiperspirants to reduce sweating.
- Iontophoresis, a procedure that uses mild electrical currents to reduce sweat gland activity.
- Botulinum toxin injections for more severe cases to temporarily block the nerves causing sweating.
- Surgery, such as sympathectomy, in extreme cases where other treatments have failed.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With effective treatment, patients can experience significant improvement in symptoms.
- Regular follow-ups are important to manage and adjust treatment plans.
- Some treatments, such as botox injections, may need to be repeated periodically.

#### Complications
- Without treatment, individuals may face challenges in professional and social settings.
- Potential for skin infections or conditions due to persistently moist palms.
- Psychological impact, including anxiety or depression, due to social embarrassment.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Wearing breathable fabrics and maintaining good hygiene can help manage symptoms.
- Stress management techniques, as stress can exacerbate sweating.
- Currently, there are no specific measures known to prevent the condition entirely.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- If excessive sweating is affecting daily life or mental health, professional evaluation is advised.
- Sudden onset of excessive sweating without a clear cause should be assessed by a healthcare provider to rule out other medical conditions.

#### Additional Resources
- International Hyperhidrosis Society ([sweathelp.org](https://www.sweathelp.org))
- American Academy of Dermatology ([aad.org](https://www.aad.org))

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure specific location (palms) is documented: use ICD code L74.512 for accuracy.
- Watch for secondary conditions and code them separately if present.
- Verify the diagnosis is primary focal hyperhidrosis, as other types may have different codes.

Medical Policies and Guidelines for Primary focal hyperhidrosis, palms

Related policies from health plans

Similar Codes