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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.212

L03.212

Billable

Acute lymphangitis of face

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.212 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of face.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the face is an inflammatory condition characterized by the infection of the lymphatic vessels, typically resulting from bacterial infections, most commonly due to Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species. Clinically, patients present with erythema, swelling, and tenderness along the lymphatic pathways, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The face, being a highly vascularized area, can show rapid progression of symptoms, leading to complications such as abscess formation or systemic spread of infection if not treated promptly. The anatomy involved includes the superficial and deep lymphatic vessels of the facial region, which drain lymph from the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, supported by patient history and physical examination, with laboratory tests such as blood cultures or imaging studies being utilized in complicated cases. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure favorable outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and may involve differential diagnosis.
  • Treatment complexity: May necessitate antibiotics and, in some cases, surgical intervention.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes are essential to support diagnosis.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other skin infections.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other skin infections.
  • Documentation gaps: Insufficient clinical detail to support diagnosis.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not clearly establish the diagnosis.

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Acute lymphangitis of the face can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognize this condition early to reduce healthcare utilization and improve patient outcomes. The condition is more prevalent in populations with compromised immune systems or poor hygiene, highlighting the importance of public health measures and education to prevent infections.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis of the face can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for healthcare providers to recognize this condition early to reduce healthcare utilization and improve patient outcomes. The condition is more prevalent in populations with compromised immune systems or poor hygiene, highlighting the importance of public health measures and education to prevent infections.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the need for clear documentation to justify the medical necessity of the visit and any procedures performed. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or misclassification of the condition. Best practices include thorough documentation and adherence to coding guidelines to minimize audit risks.

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 L03.212?

L03.212 specifically covers acute lymphangitis of the face, which is characterized by inflammation of the lymphatic vessels due to infection. It is important to differentiate this condition from other skin infections such as cellulitis or abscesses.

When should L03.212 be used instead of related codes?

L03.212 should be used when the clinical presentation specifically indicates acute lymphangitis localized to the face, as opposed to other body parts or different types of skin infections.

What documentation supports L03.212?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, noting the presence of erythema, swelling, and systemic symptoms. Laboratory results, if obtained, and treatment plans should also be included to support the diagnosis.