Cellulitis of abdominal wall
ICD-10 L03.311 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cellulitis of abdominal wall.
Cellulitis of the abdominal wall is an acute, diffuse infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, primarily caused by bacteria such as Streptococcus and Staphylococcus species. Clinically, it presents with symptoms including erythema, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area. The abdominal wall, composed of skin, subcutaneous fat, and underlying fascia, is particularly susceptible to cellulitis due to potential breaks in the skin barrier from surgical wounds, insect bites, or trauma. Disease progression can lead to systemic symptoms such as fever and chills, indicating a more severe infection. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, patient history, and, if necessary, imaging studies to rule out abscess formation or deeper tissue involvement. Laboratory tests may also be performed to identify the causative organism and assess the patient's inflammatory response. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent complications such as sepsis or necrotizing fasciitis.
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
L03.311 specifically covers cellulitis of the abdominal wall, characterized by localized infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. It is important to differentiate it from other types of cellulitis that may affect different body parts or have different etiologies.
L03.311 should be used when the cellulitis is specifically localized to the abdominal wall. If the infection is more generalized or affects other areas, other codes such as L03.31 may be more appropriate.
Documentation should include a detailed clinical examination, patient history indicating potential causes (e.g., trauma, surgery), and any laboratory or imaging results that support the diagnosis of cellulitis localized to the abdominal wall.
