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 CodesL02.22

L02.22

Non-billable

Furuncle of trunk

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.22 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of furuncle of trunk.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Furuncle of the trunk, commonly known as a boil, is a painful, pus-filled bump that forms under the skin due to a bacterial infection, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Clinically, it presents as a red, swollen lesion that may be tender to touch and can develop a central necrotic area. The trunk, which includes the chest, abdomen, and back, is a common site for these lesions, particularly in individuals with poor hygiene, obesity, or those who frequently sweat. Disease progression can lead to the formation of multiple furuncles, known as carbuncles, which may require more intensive treatment. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination and, if necessary, culture of the pus to identify the causative organism. Differential diagnoses may include other skin infections such as cellulitis or abscesses. Treatment typically involves warm compresses, incision and drainage, and antibiotics if the infection is severe or recurrent. Proper identification and management are crucial to prevent complications such as systemic infection or scarring.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Moderate, as it requires clinical evaluation and sometimes laboratory confirmation.
  • Treatment complexity: Moderate, as it may involve both conservative and surgical management.
  • Documentation requirements: Moderate, necessitating detailed clinical notes and treatment plans.
  • Coding specificity: Medium, as it requires accurate identification of the lesion and its location.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentifying the lesion type or location.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding the treatment and follow-up.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient evidence of medical necessity for procedures.

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: Primary Care

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

Furuncles can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort, leading to increased healthcare utilization. They are prevalent in populations with compromised immune systems or poor hygiene practices. Understanding the epidemiology of furuncles can aid in developing public health strategies aimed at prevention and education, ultimately reducing the incidence of these infections.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Furuncles can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort, leading to increased healthcare utilization. They are prevalent in populations with compromised immune systems or poor hygiene practices. Understanding the epidemiology of furuncles can aid in developing public health strategies aimed at prevention and education, ultimately reducing the incidence of these infections.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the procedure performed, such as incision and drainage, is medically necessary and well-documented. Common denials may arise from lack of clarity in the clinical notes or failure to demonstrate the need for surgical intervention. Coding best practices involve using the most specific code available and ensuring that all services rendered are appropriately linked to the diagnosis.

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 L02.22?

L02.22 specifically covers furuncles located on the trunk. It does not include other types of skin infections or lesions, such as abscesses or cellulitis, which are coded differently.

When should L02.22 be used instead of related codes?

L02.22 should be used when the clinical presentation specifically indicates a furuncle on the trunk, differentiating it from furuncles located on the face or other body parts, which have their own specific codes.

What documentation supports L02.22?

Documentation should include a detailed description of the lesion, its location, size, and any associated symptoms. Clinical notes should also reflect the treatment provided and any follow-up care.