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 CodesL02.225

L02.225

Billable

Furuncle of perineum

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.225 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of furuncle of perineum.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Furuncle of the perineum, commonly known as a boil, is a painful, pus-filled bump that forms under the skin due to bacterial infection, typically by Staphylococcus aureus. The perineum, which is the area between the anus and the genitals, can be particularly susceptible to furuncles due to moisture, friction, and hair follicles in the region. Clinically, patients may present with localized swelling, redness, tenderness, and the formation of a central pustule. As the furuncle progresses, it may rupture, leading to drainage of pus and relief of pain. In some cases, multiple furuncles can cluster together, forming a carbuncle. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the characteristic appearance and symptoms. Differential diagnoses may include hidradenitis suppurativa, folliculitis, and abscesses. Laboratory tests are rarely needed unless systemic infection is suspected. Treatment typically involves warm compresses to promote drainage, and in some cases, incision and drainage may be necessary. Antibiotics may be prescribed if there is significant surrounding cellulitis or recurrent infections.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors include misclassification with other skin infections.
  • Documentation gaps may arise if the clinical presentation is not clearly described.
  • Billing challenges can occur if the treatment provided is not adequately supported by documentation.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

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

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, particularly in sensitive areas like the perineum, can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort. They may lead to increased healthcare utilization, including visits to primary care and dermatology specialists. Understanding the epidemiology of skin infections, including furuncles, is essential for public health initiatives aimed at reducing bacterial infections and improving skin health outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Furuncles, particularly in sensitive areas like the perineum, can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort. They may lead to increased healthcare utilization, including visits to primary care and dermatology specialists. Understanding the epidemiology of skin infections, including furuncles, is essential for public health initiatives aimed at reducing bacterial infections and improving skin health outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the case and whether the procedure is deemed medically necessary. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or coding errors, particularly if the furuncle is not clearly identified. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical notes support the diagnosis and treatment provided, and using appropriate modifiers when necessary to indicate the nature of the procedure.

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 L02.225?

L02.225 specifically covers furuncles located in the perineum, which are characterized by painful, swollen lumps filled with pus due to bacterial infection. It does not include other skin infections or conditions such as abscesses or cellulitis unless they are specifically identified as furuncles.

When should L02.225 be used instead of related codes?

L02.225 should be used when the furuncle is specifically located in the perineum. If the lesion is located in another area, such as the buttock or thigh, the corresponding codes L02.224 or L02.226 should be used. Accurate anatomical localization is crucial for proper coding.

What documentation supports L02.225?

Documentation should include a detailed description of the lesion's location, size, symptoms, and any treatment provided. Clinical notes should indicate the diagnosis of a furuncle and any relevant history of recurrent infections or associated conditions.