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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.121

L03.121

Billable

Acute lymphangitis of right axilla

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.121 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of right axilla.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the right axilla is an inflammatory condition characterized by the infection of the lymphatic vessels, typically resulting from bacterial infections, most commonly streptococci or staphylococci. Clinically, patients present with localized pain, swelling, and erythema in the right axillary region, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The anatomy involved includes the lymphatic vessels draining the upper limb and axillary lymph nodes. Disease progression can lead to the development of abscesses or systemic infection if left untreated. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, history of recent infections or trauma, and potentially imaging studies to assess the extent of lymphatic involvement. Laboratory tests may also be performed to identify the causative organism and guide appropriate antibiotic therapy.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and possibly imaging to confirm lymphangitis.
  • Treatment complexity: Involves antibiotic therapy and may require surgical intervention if abscess formation occurs.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of symptoms, clinical findings, and treatment response is necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other skin and soft tissue infections.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the site of infection or failure to document the acute nature of the condition.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding the patient's symptoms and treatment plan.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of specificity in coding or insufficient documentation to support the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

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

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

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

CPT Code

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Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

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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 can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for population health as it can indicate underlying issues such as skin integrity problems or systemic infections. Quality measures may include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can reduce healthcare utilization patterns and improve patient outcomes. Epidemiologically, understanding the incidence of lymphangitis can help in developing preventive strategies and improving public health initiatives.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for population health as it can indicate underlying issues such as skin integrity problems or systemic infections. Quality measures may include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can reduce healthcare utilization patterns and improve patient outcomes. Epidemiologically, understanding the incidence of lymphangitis can help in developing preventive strategies and improving public health initiatives.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the need for clear justification of the diagnosis and treatment plan, especially if surgical intervention is required. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical notes are comprehensive and that coding accurately reflects the diagnosis and treatment provided.

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 L03.121?

L03.121 specifically covers acute lymphangitis localized to the right axilla, which may arise from skin infections, insect bites, or other sources of bacterial entry into the lymphatic system.

When should L03.121 be used instead of related codes?

L03.121 should be used when the lymphangitis is specifically localized to the right axilla, differentiating it from other sites of infection or unspecified lymphangitis.

What documentation supports L03.121?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment of the right axillary region, noting symptoms such as redness, swelling, and pain, as well as any systemic symptoms and the patient's medical history.