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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL02.511

L02.511

Billable

Cutaneous abscess of right hand

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/06/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.511 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cutaneous abscess of right hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L02.511 refers to a cutaneous abscess located on the right hand, a localized collection of pus that forms within the skin or subcutaneous tissue due to infection. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area, often accompanied by systemic signs like fever. The anatomy involved includes the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, where the abscess typically arises from hair follicles or sweat glands. Disease progression can lead to further complications if not treated, including cellulitis or systemic infection. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, possibly supplemented by imaging studies or aspiration of the abscess to confirm the presence of pus. Culturing the pus can help identify the causative organism, guiding appropriate antibiotic therapy. Prompt intervention is crucial to prevent complications and promote healing.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and possibly imaging or aspiration.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve incision and drainage, along with antibiotic therapy.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and possibly lab results are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise localization and understanding of the abscess type.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentifying the location or type of abscess.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes or lack of supporting lab results.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not clearly support the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary medical specialty: Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Secondary specialty: General Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply

Common Clinical Scenarios

Various clinical presentations within this specialty area

Billing Considerations

Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of L02.511 lies in its potential to lead to more serious infections if not treated promptly. In terms of population health, cutaneous abscesses are common, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or those engaging in high-risk behaviors. Quality measures may include timely intervention and appropriate antibiotic use, while healthcare utilization patterns reflect the need for both outpatient and inpatient care for severe cases. Epidemiologically, understanding the prevalence and risk factors associated with cutaneous abscesses can inform public health strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of L02.511 lies in its potential to lead to more serious infections if not treated promptly. In terms of population health, cutaneous abscesses are common, particularly in individuals with compromised immune systems or those engaging in high-risk behaviors. Quality measures may include timely intervention and appropriate antibiotic use, while healthcare utilization patterns reflect the need for both outpatient and inpatient care for severe cases. Epidemiologically, understanding the prevalence and risk factors associated with cutaneous abscesses can inform public health strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the procedure performed, such as incision and drainage, and any associated services. Common denials may occur if the documentation does not adequately reflect the clinical findings or if the procedure is not clearly linked to the diagnosis. Best practices include thorough documentation of the clinical encounter, procedural notes, and follow-up care to ensure compliance and minimize audit risks.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for L00-L99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10 Official Guidelines for L00-L99
  • •
    Clinical Documentation Requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific conditions are covered by L02.511?

L02.511 specifically covers cutaneous abscesses located on the right hand, which may arise from bacterial infections, often involving Staphylococcus aureus. It does not cover abscesses in other locations or those caused by non-bacterial pathogens.

When should L02.511 be used instead of related codes?

L02.511 should be used when the abscess is confirmed to be on the right hand. If the abscess is on the left hand, L02.512 should be used. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment and billing.

What documentation supports L02.511?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical examination, notes on the size and characteristics of the abscess, any imaging studies performed, and results from cultures if obtained. This ensures the diagnosis is well-supported.