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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.123

L03.123

Billable

Acute lymphangitis of right upper limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.123 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of right upper limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the right upper limb is an inflammatory condition characterized by the infection of the lymphatic vessels, often resulting from bacterial infections, typically Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species. Clinically, patients present with symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected limb, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and chills. The anatomy involved includes the lymphatic vessels that drain lymph from the tissues of the right upper limb, which can become obstructed or inflamed due to infection. Disease progression may lead to complications such as abscess formation or systemic spread of the infection if not promptly treated. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, history-taking to identify potential sources of infection, and possibly 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 may involve laboratory tests.
  • Treatment complexity: Treatment typically involves antibiotics and may require surgical intervention in severe cases.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of symptoms, treatment plans, and follow-up care is essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other types of lymphangitis and related skin infections.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentifying the affected limb or failing to document the infection source.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records regarding the patient's symptoms and treatment response.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of supporting documentation or incorrect code selection.

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

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 right upper limb can significantly impact patient health, leading to increased healthcare utilization due to hospital visits and potential complications. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognize and treat this condition promptly to prevent severe outcomes. Epidemiologically, the incidence may vary based on underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or immunosuppression, which can increase susceptibility to infections. Quality measures should focus on timely diagnosis and effective management to improve patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis of the right upper limb can significantly impact patient health, leading to increased healthcare utilization due to hospital visits and potential complications. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognize and treat this condition promptly to prevent severe outcomes. Epidemiologically, the incidence may vary based on underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or immunosuppression, which can increase susceptibility to infections. Quality measures should focus on timely diagnosis and effective management to improve patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the diagnosis is clearly linked to the services provided. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding, particularly if the specific limb affected is not clearly indicated. Best practices include thorough documentation of the patient's symptoms, treatment response, and any follow-up care, as well as ensuring that the coding aligns with the services rendered.

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 L03.123?

L03.123 specifically covers acute lymphangitis of the right upper limb, which may arise from skin infections, trauma, or other sources of bacterial entry. It is important to differentiate it from chronic lymphangitis and other skin infections.

When should L03.123 be used instead of related codes?

L03.123 should be used when the acute lymphangitis is specifically localized to the right upper limb. If the condition affects another limb or is chronic, the appropriate related code should be selected.

What documentation supports L03.123?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment of the patient, including symptoms, duration, any underlying conditions, treatment provided, and response to treatment. Laboratory results confirming the diagnosis may also be necessary.