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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL02.519

L02.519

Billable

Cutaneous abscess of unspecified hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.519 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cutaneous abscess of unspecified hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L02.519 refers to a cutaneous abscess located on an unspecified hand, which is a localized collection of pus within the skin or subcutaneous tissue. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as localized swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area, often accompanied by systemic signs like fever. The anatomy involved primarily includes the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, where the abscess forms due to infection, often stemming from bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus. Disease progression can lead to increased pain, potential drainage of pus, and in severe cases, systemic infection if left untreated. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, history taking, and possibly imaging studies if deeper tissue involvement is suspected. Culturing the pus may also be necessary to identify the causative organism and guide antibiotic therapy. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and to prevent complications such as cellulitis or systemic infection.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and possibly imaging.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve incision and drainage, along with antibiotic therapy.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of symptoms, treatment, and follow-up is necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise identification of the location and nature of the abscess.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentifying the location or type of abscess.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding the clinical presentation and treatment.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of specificity or insufficient 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

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of L02.519 lies in its potential to lead to more severe infections if not treated promptly. Population health impact includes the burden of skin infections, which can affect various demographics, particularly those with compromised immune systems. Quality measures may focus on timely intervention and appropriate antibiotic use. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns for abscess treatment can help in resource allocation and preventive strategies in community health.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of L02.519 lies in its potential to lead to more severe infections if not treated promptly. Population health impact includes the burden of skin infections, which can affect various demographics, particularly those with compromised immune systems. Quality measures may focus on timely intervention and appropriate antibiotic use. Understanding healthcare utilization patterns for abscess treatment can help in resource allocation and preventive strategies in community health.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the procedure performed, such as incision and drainage, and any associated costs for laboratory tests if cultures are taken. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or lack of specificity in the diagnosis. Best practices include thorough documentation of the clinical presentation, treatment rationale, and follow-up care to support the medical necessity of the services rendered.

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 L02.519?

L02.519 covers cutaneous abscesses of the hand that are not otherwise specified. This includes abscesses caused by bacterial infections, which may arise from various sources such as trauma, insect bites, or pre-existing skin conditions.

When should L02.519 be used instead of related codes?

L02.519 should be used when the abscess location is unspecified, and there is no indication of whether it is on the right or left hand. If the location is known, use the specific codes L02.511 or L02.512.

What documentation supports L02.519?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, including the size, location, and characteristics of the abscess, as well as any relevant history of trauma or infection. Treatment notes, including any procedures performed and follow-up care, are also essential.