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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL04.8

L04.8

Billable

Acute lymphadenitis of other sites

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L04.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphadenitis of other sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphadenitis of other sites is characterized by the inflammation of lymph nodes due to infection, typically presenting with swelling, tenderness, and erythema in the affected area. The lymphatic system, which includes lymph nodes, vessels, and lymph fluid, plays a crucial role in the immune response. Acute lymphadenitis can arise from various infectious agents, including bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and may occur in regions not typically associated with lymphadenopathy, such as the abdomen or pelvis. Disease progression can vary; if untreated, it may lead to abscess formation or systemic infection. Diagnosis often involves a thorough clinical examination, imaging studies, and laboratory tests to identify the causative organism. Differential diagnoses include other forms of lymphadenitis, malignancies, and systemic infections, necessitating careful evaluation to ensure accurate coding and treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires differentiation from other lymphatic and systemic conditions.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve antibiotics, drainage procedures, or surgical intervention depending on severity.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and diagnostic results are essential for accurate coding.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise identification of the site and cause of lymphadenitis.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the site or cause of lymphadenitis.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes or lack of laboratory results.
  • Billing challenges: Denials may occur if documentation does not support the diagnosis or if the code is not specific enough.

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 can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for population health as it may indicate underlying infections that could affect broader community health. Quality measures include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can reduce healthcare utilization and improve patient outcomes. Understanding the epidemiology of lymphadenitis helps healthcare providers recognize patterns and implement preventive measures.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphadenitis can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for population health as it may indicate underlying infections that could affect broader community health. Quality measures include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can reduce healthcare utilization and improve patient outcomes. Understanding the epidemiology of lymphadenitis helps healthcare providers recognize patterns and implement preventive measures.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Acute lymphadenitis can significantly impact patient health, leading to complications if not treated promptly. It is essential for population health as it may indicate underlying infections that could affect broader community health. Quality measures include timely diagnosis and treatment, which can reduce healthcare utilization and improve patient outcomes. Understanding the epidemiology of lymphadenitis helps healthcare providers recognize patterns and implement preventive measures.

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 L04.8?

L04.8 covers acute lymphadenitis occurring in sites other than the head, neck, axilla, or groin. This may include lymphadenitis in the abdomen, pelvis, or other atypical locations, often due to localized infections or systemic diseases.

When should L04.8 be used instead of related codes?

L04.8 should be used when the lymphadenitis is not localized to the commonly specified areas in other codes. It is essential to document the specific site of involvement and the underlying cause to justify the use of this code.

What documentation supports L04.8?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, imaging results (if applicable), laboratory findings that indicate infection, and a clear description of the affected lymph nodes and their anatomical location.