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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.324

L03.324

Billable

Acute lymphangitis of groin

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.324 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of groin.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the groin 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 may present with symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, erythema, and warmth in the groin area, often accompanied by systemic symptoms like fever and malaise. The anatomy involved includes the lymphatic vessels that drain lymph from the lower extremities and groin region. Disease progression can lead to the development of lymphadenopathy and, if untreated, may result in systemic infection or sepsis. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, history of recent skin infections, and possibly imaging studies to assess the extent of lymphatic involvement. Laboratory tests may also be warranted to identify the causative organism and assess inflammatory markers. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and possibly laboratory tests.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve antibiotics and management of underlying conditions.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and treatment plans are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other skin and lymphatic conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with other lymphatic or skin conditions.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes may lead to coding inaccuracies.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not support the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary medical 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

Secondary 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

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

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CPT Code

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Documentation Requirements

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Acute lymphangitis of the groin can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for population health as it may indicate underlying conditions such as skin infections or systemic diseases. Quality measures may include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can reduce healthcare utilization patterns and improve patient outcomes. Epidemiologically, understanding the incidence of this condition can help in resource allocation and preventive strategies in at-risk populations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis of the groin can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for population health as it may indicate underlying conditions such as skin infections or systemic diseases. Quality measures may include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can reduce healthcare utilization patterns and improve patient outcomes. Epidemiologically, understanding the incidence of this condition can help in resource allocation and preventive strategies in at-risk populations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the need for clear linkage between the diagnosis and the services rendered. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or coding errors, so adherence to coding guidelines and thorough documentation practices are essential for successful claims processing.

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 L03.324?

L03.324 specifically covers acute lymphangitis localized to the groin, which may arise from skin infections, trauma, or other inflammatory processes affecting the lymphatic system.

When should L03.324 be used instead of related codes?

L03.324 should be used when the lymphangitis is specifically localized to the groin area, differentiating it from other sites such as the lower limb or upper extremities, which have their own specific codes.

What documentation supports L03.324?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment of the groin area, any associated symptoms, history of skin infections, and treatment plans, including prescribed antibiotics and follow-up care.