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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.02

L03.02

Non-billable

Acute lymphangitis of finger

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.02 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of finger.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the finger is an inflammatory condition characterized by the infection of the lymphatic vessels, typically resulting from a bacterial infection, often following a break in the skin. Clinically, patients may present with localized swelling, redness, and pain along the affected lymphatic channels, which may extend from the finger towards the proximal arm. The finger may exhibit signs of cellulitis, including warmth and tenderness, and systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise may also be present. The anatomy involved primarily includes the lymphatic vessels of the upper extremity, particularly those draining the fingers. Disease progression can lead to complications such as abscess formation or systemic infection if not promptly treated. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, history of recent trauma or skin lesions, and possibly imaging studies to assess the extent of lymphatic involvement. Laboratory tests may be performed to identify the causative organism, typically Staphylococcus or Streptococcus species, and to rule out other conditions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical assessment and possibly laboratory confirmation.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve antibiotics and monitoring for complications.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and treatment plans are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate identification of the condition and its location.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the site or severity of the condition.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding the patient's history or treatment.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not support the diagnosis.

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

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

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Acute lymphangitis of the finger, while localized, can have significant clinical implications if not treated promptly, potentially leading to systemic infection. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is important, as it can affect various populations, particularly those with compromised skin integrity or immune systems. Quality measures may include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization associated with complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis of the finger, while localized, can have significant clinical implications if not treated promptly, potentially leading to systemic infection. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is important, as it can affect various populations, particularly those with compromised skin integrity or immune systems. Quality measures may include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization associated with complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement may be affected by the specificity of the documentation, and common denials can occur if the diagnosis is not clearly supported. It is essential to use appropriate CPT codes for evaluation and management services, as well as any procedures performed, to ensure proper billing and 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 L03.02?

L03.02 specifically covers acute lymphangitis of the finger, which may arise from infections following trauma, insect bites, or other skin breaches. It is characterized by inflammation of the lymphatic vessels in the finger.

When should L03.02 be used instead of related codes?

L03.02 should be used when the lymphangitis is localized to the finger. If the condition involves other areas, such as the arm or hand, other codes like L03.01 or L03.03 should be considered.

What documentation supports L03.02?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, history of any preceding skin injuries, symptoms observed, and treatment provided. Laboratory results confirming infection may also be beneficial.