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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL02.629

L02.629

Billable

Furuncle of unspecified foot

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.629 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of furuncle of unspecified foot.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A furuncle, 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. When located on the foot, it can arise from hair follicles or sweat glands, leading to localized inflammation and swelling. Clinically, patients may present with a red, swollen area that is tender to touch, accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever or malaise in severe cases. The anatomy involved includes the skin layers, particularly the epidermis and dermis, where the infection occurs. Disease progression can lead to the formation of an abscess if not treated, potentially requiring drainage. 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, making accurate coding essential for appropriate treatment and management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation to differentiate from similar conditions.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve antibiotics or surgical intervention for drainage.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed patient history and clinical findings are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise localization of the furuncle for accurate coding.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the site or type of infection.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete patient history or lack of clinical findings.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to insufficient specificity in coding.

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 affect patient quality of life, leading to pain and discomfort, and may require medical intervention. In terms of population health, the incidence of skin infections like furuncles can vary based on factors such as hygiene, underlying health conditions, and access to healthcare. Understanding the epidemiology of these conditions can help healthcare providers implement preventive measures and improve patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Furuncles can significantly affect patient quality of life, leading to pain and discomfort, and may require medical intervention. In terms of population health, the incidence of skin infections like furuncles can vary based on factors such as hygiene, underlying health conditions, and access to healthcare. Understanding the epidemiology of these conditions can help healthcare providers implement preventive measures and improve patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the need for clear evidence of the diagnosis and the treatment plan. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding. Best practices include ensuring that the medical record reflects the patient's condition accurately and that the coding aligns with the services rendered. It is also advisable to check payer-specific guidelines for any additional requirements.

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 L02.629?

L02.629 covers furuncles located on the unspecified foot, which may include infections of hair follicles or sweat glands. It does not cover other skin infections such as cellulitis or abscesses that are not classified as furuncles.

When should L02.629 be used instead of related codes?

L02.629 should be used when the furuncle's specific location on the foot is not documented. If the furuncle is located on the right or left foot, the more specific codes L02.620 or L02.621 should be used.

What documentation supports L02.629?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical examination, patient history, and any relevant laboratory results, such as cultures, to support the diagnosis of a furuncle on the foot.