ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL05.0

L05.0

Non-billable

Pilonidal cyst and sinus with abscess

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L05.0 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of pilonidal cyst and sinus with abscess.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A pilonidal cyst and sinus with abscess is a condition characterized by the formation of a cystic lesion in the sacrococcygeal area, often resulting from hair follicles becoming obstructed and infected. Clinically, patients may present with pain, swelling, and tenderness in the lower back region, particularly when sitting or during physical activity. The affected area may exhibit erythema and purulent drainage, indicating the presence of an abscess. The anatomy involved includes the skin and subcutaneous tissue surrounding the coccyx, where hair follicles can become inflamed. Disease progression can lead to recurrent infections and chronic sinus formation if not adequately treated. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough physical examination and, in some cases, imaging studies to assess the extent of the abscess. Treatment typically involves incision and drainage of the abscess, followed by surgical intervention to remove the cyst and prevent recurrence. Proper diagnosis and management are crucial to avoid complications such as cellulitis or systemic infection.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and sometimes imaging.
  • Treatment complexity: Involves surgical intervention and post-operative care.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and operative reports needed.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other skin conditions.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misclassification of pilonidal cysts without abscess.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records of symptoms and treatment plans.
  • Billing challenges: Denials may arise from insufficient documentation supporting the need for surgical intervention.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

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

General Surgery

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The clinical significance of pilonidal cysts with abscesses lies in their potential for recurrence and complications if not treated appropriately. Population health impact includes a notable prevalence among young adults, particularly males, leading to increased healthcare utilization for surgical interventions. Quality measures focus on reducing recurrence rates and improving patient outcomes post-surgery, highlighting the importance of effective management strategies in this patient population.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of pilonidal cysts with abscesses lies in their potential for recurrence and complications if not treated appropriately. Population health impact includes a notable prevalence among young adults, particularly males, leading to increased healthcare utilization for surgical interventions. Quality measures focus on reducing recurrence rates and improving patient outcomes post-surgery, highlighting the importance of effective management strategies in this patient population.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the procedure performed, such as incision and drainage or excision of the cyst. Common denials may occur if documentation does not clearly support the necessity of surgical intervention or if the diagnosis is not well-defined. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical notes are thorough and that operative reports detail the procedure and rationale for surgery.

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 L05.0?

L05.0 specifically covers pilonidal cysts and sinuses that are complicated by the presence of an abscess. This includes cases where there is significant inflammation and infection requiring surgical intervention.

When should L05.0 be used instead of related codes?

L05.0 should be used when there is clear evidence of an abscess associated with a pilonidal cyst. If the cyst is present without abscess formation, L05.1 should be used instead.

What documentation supports L05.0?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment of the abscess, treatment plans, operative notes if surgery is performed, and follow-up care details to ensure comprehensive coverage for L05.0.