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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.01

L03.01

Non-billable

Cellulitis of finger

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.01 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of cellulitis of finger.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Cellulitis of the finger is a bacterial skin infection that affects the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species. Clinically, it presents with localized swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the affected finger, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The anatomy involved includes the skin layers, particularly the epidermis and dermis, as well as the underlying connective tissue. Disease progression can lead to complications such as abscess formation if not treated promptly. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination and, in some cases, imaging studies to rule out deeper infections or foreign bodies. Laboratory tests may be warranted to identify the causative organism, especially in recurrent cases. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent the spread of infection and potential systemic involvement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and sometimes laboratory tests.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve oral or intravenous antibiotics depending on severity.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and treatment plans are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate identification of the site and nature of the infection.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the site or severity of infection.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding symptoms and treatment.
  • 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: Infectious Disease

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

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Cellulitis of the finger can significantly impact patient quality of life, leading to pain, functional impairment, and potential complications if untreated. It is a common condition that can affect various populations, particularly those with diabetes or compromised immune systems. Understanding the epidemiology of cellulitis can aid in developing preventive measures and improving healthcare utilization patterns, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Cellulitis of the finger can significantly impact patient quality of life, leading to pain, functional impairment, and potential complications if untreated. It is a common condition that can affect various populations, particularly those with diabetes or compromised immune systems. Understanding the epidemiology of cellulitis can aid in developing preventive measures and improving healthcare utilization patterns, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the severity of the infection and the complexity of care provided. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity. Coders should ensure that all relevant information is captured to support the diagnosis and any procedures performed, adhering to payer-specific guidelines for optimal reimbursement.

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 L03.01?

L03.01 specifically covers cellulitis localized to the finger, characterized by inflammation and infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. It does not cover infections of other sites or more severe conditions like necrotizing fasciitis.

When should L03.01 be used instead of related codes?

L03.01 should be used when the clinical presentation is specific to cellulitis of the finger. It is important to differentiate it from other types of cellulitis or skin infections that may involve different anatomical sites.

What documentation supports L03.01?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, noting the symptoms, duration, treatment provided, and any laboratory results that support the diagnosis of cellulitis of the finger.