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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL02.426

L02.426

Billable

Furuncle of left lower limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.426 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of furuncle of left lower limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L02.426 refers to a furuncle (boil) located on the left lower limb, which is a painful, pus-filled bump that forms under the skin due to bacterial infection, most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus. Clinically, furuncles present as red, swollen nodules that may rupture and drain pus. The affected area may be tender to touch, and systemic symptoms such as fever can occur in severe cases. The anatomy involved includes the skin and subcutaneous tissue, where hair follicles become obstructed and infected. Disease progression can lead to the formation of multiple furuncles, known as carbuncles, if left untreated. 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 like cellulitis or abscesses. 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
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors
  • Documentation gaps
  • Billing challenges

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 can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort, leading to increased healthcare utilization. They are common in populations with compromised skin integrity or those with diabetes. Effective management of furuncles can reduce the risk of complications and improve overall health outcomes, making it a relevant condition in public health discussions.

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 common in populations with compromised skin integrity or those with diabetes. Effective management of furuncles can reduce the risk of complications and improve overall health outcomes, making it a relevant condition in public health discussions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the necessity of the procedure performed, such as incision and drainage, if applicable. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or lack of medical necessity. Best practices include thorough documentation of the clinical findings, treatment provided, and follow-up care to ensure compliance and reduce audit risks.

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 L02.426?

L02.426 specifically covers furuncles located on the left lower limb. It is important to differentiate this from other skin infections or conditions such as cellulitis or abscesses, which may require different coding.

When should L02.426 be used instead of related codes?

L02.426 should be used when the furuncle is specifically located on the left lower limb. If the furuncle is on another limb or location, the appropriate code for that area should be selected.

What documentation supports L02.426?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical examination, noting the location, size, and characteristics of the furuncle, as well as any treatment provided. Culture results, if obtained, should also be documented.