ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL02.2

L02.2

Non-billable

Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle of trunk

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.2 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle of trunk.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L02.2 refers to cutaneous abscesses, furuncles, and carbuncles located on the trunk, which are localized collections of pus within the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. These conditions typically arise from bacterial infections, most commonly due to Staphylococcus aureus, and can present as painful, swollen, and erythematous nodules. The furuncle, or boil, is a single infected hair follicle, while a carbuncle is a cluster of interconnected furuncles that can lead to more extensive tissue involvement. The trunk, which includes the chest and abdomen, is a common site for these infections due to friction, moisture, and occlusion. Disease progression can lead to systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise if the infection spreads. Diagnostic considerations include clinical examination and, in some cases, culture of the pus to identify the causative organism. Treatment typically involves incision and drainage of the abscess, along with antibiotics if systemic infection is suspected. Proper identification and management are crucial to prevent complications such as cellulitis or sepsis.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and potential laboratory tests.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention and antibiotic therapy.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and treatment plans are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate identification of the site and type of abscess.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the abscess type or location.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding the extent of the infection.
  • Billing challenges: Denials may occur if the documentation does not support the severity or treatment provided.

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

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of L02.2 lies in its potential to lead to more severe infections if not treated promptly. Population health impact includes the prevalence of skin infections, which can vary based on hygiene practices and access to healthcare. Quality measures may focus on timely intervention and appropriate antibiotic use. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns for conditions like L02.2 can aid in resource allocation and preventive strategies, particularly in high-risk populations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of L02.2 lies in its potential to lead to more severe infections if not treated promptly. Population health impact includes the prevalence of skin infections, which can vary based on hygiene practices and access to healthcare. Quality measures may focus on timely intervention and appropriate antibiotic use. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns for conditions like L02.2 can aid in resource allocation and preventive strategies, particularly in high-risk populations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the procedure and whether it was performed in an outpatient or inpatient setting. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or lack of medical necessity, so it is essential to provide clear notes on the patient's condition and treatment plan. Best practices include using precise coding and ensuring that all services rendered are supported by the documentation.

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 L02.2?

L02.2 covers cutaneous abscesses, furuncles, and carbuncles specifically located on the trunk. These conditions are characterized by localized infections that may require drainage and antibiotic treatment.

When should L02.2 be used instead of related codes?

L02.2 should be used when the abscess, furuncle, or carbuncle is specifically located on the trunk. If the infection is on the face or limbs, other codes such as L02.1 or L02.3 should be selected.

What documentation supports L02.2?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment of the lesion, treatment provided (such as incision and drainage), and any laboratory results if cultures were taken. This ensures accurate coding and supports medical necessity.