Cellulitis and acute lymphangitis of other parts of limb
ICD-10 L03.1 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of cellulitis and acute lymphangitis of other parts of limb.
L03.1 refers to cellulitis and acute lymphangitis affecting other parts of the limb, excluding the face and trunk. Clinically, cellulitis presents as a localized area of redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the skin and subcutaneous tissues, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The condition typically arises from bacterial infections, most commonly due to Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species, entering through breaks in the skin. The anatomy involved includes the dermis, subcutaneous fat, and lymphatic vessels, which may become inflamed, leading to acute lymphangitis characterized by red streaks along the lymphatic pathways. Disease progression can lead to severe complications if untreated, including abscess formation or systemic infection. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and, in some cases, imaging studies to rule out abscesses or other underlying conditions. Laboratory tests may also be performed to identify the causative organism and assess the severity of the infection.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
L03.1 covers cellulitis and acute lymphangitis in limbs, excluding the face and trunk. It includes infections that present with localized swelling, redness, and systemic symptoms, typically due to bacterial pathogens.
L03.1 should be used when cellulitis or lymphangitis is specifically localized to other parts of the limb, ensuring that the documentation clearly differentiates it from facial or trunk infections.
Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, patient history, signs of infection (e.g., erythema, edema), and any laboratory results that support the diagnosis of cellulitis or lymphangitis.
