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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL02.422

L02.422

Billable

Furuncle of left axilla

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.422 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of furuncle of left axilla.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L02.422 refers to a furuncle (boil) located in the left axilla, which is an infection of a hair follicle that leads to the formation of a painful, pus-filled bump. Clinically, furuncles are characterized by localized swelling, redness, and tenderness, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever if the infection is severe. The axilla, or armpit, is a common site for furuncles due to the presence of hair follicles and moisture, which can promote bacterial growth, particularly from Staphylococcus aureus. Disease progression typically begins with folliculitis, which can escalate to a furuncle if not treated promptly. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination and, if necessary, culture of the pus to identify the causative organism. Treatment often involves incision and drainage of the abscess, along with antibiotics if systemic infection is suspected. Proper hygiene and management of underlying conditions, such as diabetes, are crucial to prevent recurrence.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Moderate, as it requires differentiation from other skin lesions.
  • Treatment complexity: Moderate, involving both surgical and medical management.
  • Documentation requirements: Requires detailed clinical notes on presentation and treatment.
  • Coding specificity: Specific to the location and type of infection.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the lesion type or location.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding the treatment and follow-up.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of supporting documentation.

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, particularly in the axillary region, can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort. They may lead to increased healthcare utilization, including emergency visits and surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of furuncles, including risk factors such as obesity and diabetes, can help healthcare providers implement preventive measures. Tracking these conditions can also contribute to quality measures aimed at reducing skin infections and improving overall patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Furuncles, particularly in the axillary region, can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort. They may lead to increased healthcare utilization, including emergency visits and surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of furuncles, including risk factors such as obesity and diabetes, can help healthcare providers implement preventive measures. Tracking these conditions can also contribute to quality measures aimed at reducing skin infections and improving overall patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the procedure performed, such as whether incision and drainage were necessary. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity. Coders should ensure that all relevant clinical notes, including the patient's history and treatment plan, are included to support the claim. Best practices involve using precise coding and maintaining thorough records to facilitate the billing process.

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 L02.422?

L02.422 specifically covers furuncles located in the left axilla. It may also encompass related conditions such as carbuncles or abscesses in the same area, provided they are documented appropriately.

When should L02.422 be used instead of related codes?

L02.422 should be used when the furuncle is specifically located in the left axilla. If the lesion is on the right side or in another location, the corresponding code should be selected. Accurate anatomical coding is essential for proper billing and treatment tracking.

What documentation supports L02.422?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical examination, description of the lesion, treatment provided (e.g., incision and drainage), and any laboratory results if cultures were taken. Follow-up notes should also be included to demonstrate resolution or ongoing management.