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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesB08.0

B08.0

Acute lymphadenitis

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 B08.0 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphadenitis.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphadenitis is an inflammatory condition characterized by the swelling and tenderness of lymph nodes, often due to an infectious process. This condition can arise from various viral infections, including those caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and other common viral pathogens. Patients typically present with localized pain, fever, and systemic symptoms such as malaise. The lymph nodes involved may be palpable and tender upon examination. Acute lymphadenitis can occur in any region of the body where lymph nodes are present, but it is most commonly seen in the cervical region. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by patient history and physical examination, although laboratory tests may be utilized to identify the underlying viral cause. Vaccination considerations are crucial, as certain vaccines can prevent viral infections that lead to lymphadenitis. For instance, the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine can reduce the incidence of mumps-related lymphadenitis. Complications may include abscess formation or the spread of infection to adjacent tissues, necessitating prompt medical intervention.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of viral etiologies that can cause acute lymphadenitis
  • Need for differential diagnosis to rule out bacterial infections
  • Documentation of symptoms and clinical findings
  • Potential for complications requiring additional coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the viral etiology
  • Failure to differentiate from bacterial lymphadenitis
  • Misclassification of the severity of symptoms
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for complications

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Infectious Disease

Documentation Requirements

Detailed patient history, laboratory results, and clinical findings related to the viral infection.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with swollen lymph nodes and systemic symptoms following a viral illness.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of vaccination history and potential complications from viral infections.

Pediatrics

Documentation Requirements

Growth and development history, vaccination status, and detailed examination findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Children presenting with acute lymphadenitis following common viral infections like EBV or CMV.

Billing Considerations

Age-specific considerations and the impact of immunization on incidence.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use B08.0 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, B08
  • 0 should be used when the lymphadenitis is specifically attributed to a viral infection
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that any related symptoms or complications are accurately captured

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use B08.0 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit

Clinical Scenario

Used for follow-up visits for patients with acute lymphadenitis.

Documentation Requirements

Document history of present illness, examination findings, and treatment plan.

Specialty Considerations

Consider additional documentation for infectious disease specialists.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acute lymphadenitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of viral infections and their complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of acute lymphadenitis, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of viral infections and their complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. It has also facilitated better tracking of viral infections and their complications.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    CDC Viral Infections and Lymphadenitis

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    CDC Viral Infections and Lymphadenitis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common causes of acute lymphadenitis?

Acute lymphadenitis is commonly caused by viral infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and mumps. Bacterial infections can also cause similar symptoms, so accurate diagnosis is essential.