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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.322

L03.322

Billable

Acute lymphangitis of back [any part except buttock]

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.322 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of back [any part except buttock].

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the back is an inflammatory condition characterized by the infection of lymphatic vessels, typically resulting from bacterial infections, most commonly due to Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species. Clinically, patients present with symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, erythema, and warmth along the affected lymphatic pathways, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and malaise. The anatomy involved includes the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the back, where the lymphatic vessels are located. Disease progression can lead to complications such as abscess formation or systemic spread of infection if not treated promptly. 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 include blood cultures and inflammatory markers to guide treatment decisions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical assessment and potential imaging.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve antibiotics and monitoring for complications.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and treatment plans are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate identification of the affected area.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the site of infection.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding symptoms and treatment.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not 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

Clinical Scenario

Documentation Requirements

CPT Code

Clinical Scenario

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 increased healthcare utilization due to hospitalizations or outpatient visits for treatment. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition helps in identifying at-risk populations and implementing preventive measures. Quality measures may include tracking the incidence of lymphangitis and ensuring timely treatment to reduce complications.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis can significantly impact patient health, leading to increased healthcare utilization due to hospitalizations or outpatient visits for treatment. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition helps in identifying at-risk populations and implementing preventive measures. Quality measures may include tracking the incidence of lymphangitis and ensuring timely treatment to reduce complications.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the severity of the condition and the complexity of care. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity. It is crucial to ensure that all relevant clinical details are captured in the medical record to support the diagnosis and justify the services billed.

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 L03.322?

L03.322 specifically covers acute lymphangitis affecting the back, excluding the buttock. It is important to differentiate it from other skin infections such as cellulitis or abscesses.

When should L03.322 be used instead of related codes?

L03.322 should be used when the clinical presentation specifically indicates acute lymphangitis of the back, as opposed to other sites or conditions that may have similar symptoms.

What documentation supports L03.322?

Documentation should include a detailed history of the presenting symptoms, clinical findings, treatment provided, and any relevant laboratory results that support the diagnosis of acute lymphangitis.