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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL04.1

L04.1

Billable

Acute lymphadenitis of trunk

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L04.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphadenitis of trunk.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphadenitis of the trunk is an inflammatory condition characterized by the swelling and tenderness of lymph nodes located in the trunk area, which includes the thorax and abdomen. This condition often arises due to infections, particularly bacterial infections such as staphylococcal or streptococcal infections, and can also be associated with viral infections or systemic diseases. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, fever, and systemic symptoms such as malaise. The anatomy involved primarily includes the lymphatic system, where lymph nodes serve as filters for pathogens. Disease progression can lead to abscess formation if not treated promptly, necessitating surgical intervention in severe cases. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans to assess lymph node enlargement, and laboratory tests to identify the causative organism. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to prevent complications and ensure favorable outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires differential diagnosis to rule out other causes of lymphadenopathy.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve antibiotics, drainage procedures, or surgical intervention.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and imaging results are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to distinguish from chronic lymphadenitis or other related conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification with chronic conditions or other lymphatic disorders.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding the infection source or treatment plan.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not support the acute nature of the condition.

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 lymphadenitis of the trunk can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated effectively. It is essential for population health as it may indicate underlying infectious processes that require prompt intervention. Quality measures related to timely diagnosis and treatment can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization. Epidemiologically, understanding the prevalence of acute lymphadenitis can help in resource allocation and preventive strategies within communities.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphadenitis of the trunk can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated effectively. It is essential for population health as it may indicate underlying infectious processes that require prompt intervention. Quality measures related to timely diagnosis and treatment can improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization. Epidemiologically, understanding the prevalence of acute lymphadenitis can help in resource allocation and preventive strategies within communities.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include verifying the medical necessity of procedures such as imaging or drainage. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate the acute nature of the condition. Adhering to coding best practices, such as using the most specific code available and ensuring all documentation aligns with the billed services, can mitigate these challenges.

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 L04.1?

L04.1 covers acute lymphadenitis specifically affecting the trunk, often due to bacterial infections. It does not include chronic lymphadenitis or lymphadenopathy due to malignancies.

When should L04.1 be used instead of related codes?

L04.1 should be used when there is a clear diagnosis of acute lymphadenitis localized to the trunk, particularly when associated with acute infectious processes, distinguishing it from chronic conditions or lymphadenopathy due to systemic diseases.

What documentation supports L04.1?

Documentation should include clinical findings of lymph node tenderness and swelling, laboratory results indicating infection, imaging studies showing lymph node enlargement, and treatment plans that reflect the acute nature of the condition.