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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL05.91

L05.91

Billable

Pilonidal cyst without abscess

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L05.91 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of pilonidal cyst without abscess.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A pilonidal cyst without abscess is a common skin condition that typically occurs in the sacrococcygeal region, characterized by the formation of a cyst or cavity in the skin that may contain hair and skin debris. Clinically, patients may present with discomfort, pain, or swelling in the affected area, particularly when sitting or during physical activity. The cyst can develop due to hair follicles becoming clogged with hair and debris, leading to inflammation and the formation of a cyst. The condition may progress to form a pilonidal abscess if left untreated, which is characterized by increased pain, redness, and the presence of pus. Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on the physical examination and patient history, although imaging may be used in complicated cases. Differential diagnoses include other skin lesions or infections in the gluteal region. Treatment typically involves conservative management, such as warm compresses and hygiene measures, or surgical intervention for recurrent or symptomatic cases.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors
  • Documentation gaps
  • Billing challenges

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

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

Pilonidal cysts, particularly in the sacrococcygeal area, can significantly impact patients' quality of life due to pain and discomfort. They are more prevalent in young adults and can lead to increased healthcare utilization due to recurrent infections or surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition can help healthcare providers implement preventive measures and improve patient outcomes through timely diagnosis and treatment.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pilonidal cysts, particularly in the sacrococcygeal area, can significantly impact patients' quality of life due to pain and discomfort. They are more prevalent in young adults and can lead to increased healthcare utilization due to recurrent infections or surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition can help healthcare providers implement preventive measures and improve patient outcomes through timely diagnosis and treatment.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations may vary by payer, so it is crucial to verify coverage policies. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding, particularly if the condition progresses to an abscess. Best practices include using precise coding and maintaining clear communication with patients regarding their treatment plans.

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 L05.91?

L05.91 specifically covers pilonidal cysts that are not complicated by abscess formation. It is important to differentiate this from L05.90, which includes abscesses, as treatment and management differ significantly.

When should L05.91 be used instead of related codes?

L05.91 should be used when a patient presents with a pilonidal cyst that is not infected or abscessed. If there are signs of infection or abscess, L05.90 should be selected instead.

What documentation supports L05.91?

Documentation should include a detailed history of the patient's symptoms, physical examination findings, and any treatment provided. Notes should clearly indicate the absence of abscess formation to justify the use of L05.91.