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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesR10.814

R10.814

Left lower quadrant abdominal tenderness

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/11/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 R10.814 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of left lower quadrant abdominal tenderness.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Left lower quadrant abdominal tenderness is a clinical sign that indicates discomfort or pain in the lower left section of the abdomen. This symptom can arise from various underlying conditions affecting the gastrointestinal, urinary, or reproductive systems. Common causes include diverticulitis, appendicitis (in cases where the appendix is located in the left lower quadrant), ovarian cysts, and urinary tract infections. The tenderness may be elicited during a physical examination, where the clinician palpates the abdomen, leading to localized pain. It is essential to assess the tenderness in conjunction with other symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or changes in bowel habits to determine the underlying cause. Laboratory findings may include elevated white blood cell counts or imaging studies that reveal structural abnormalities. Accurate documentation of the tenderness, associated symptoms, and clinical findings is crucial for proper coding and management of the patient's condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in underlying causes requiring differential diagnosis
  • Need for comprehensive documentation of associated symptoms
  • Potential overlap with other abdominal pain codes
  • Variability in clinical presentation among patients

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of associated symptoms
  • Failure to link tenderness to a specific diagnosis
  • Misinterpretation of tenderness as a standalone diagnosis
  • Inconsistent coding practices across providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Internal Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Detailed history and physical examination notes, including associated symptoms and lab results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with abdominal pain, requiring evaluation for gastrointestinal disorders.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all relevant clinical findings are documented to support the diagnosis.

Emergency Medicine

Documentation Requirements

Acute care documentation, including vital signs, immediate lab results, and imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with acute abdominal pain requiring rapid assessment and intervention.

Billing Considerations

Document the urgency of the situation and any immediate treatments provided.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use R10.814 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the symptom is documented and linked to a specific clinical finding or diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use R10.814 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related CPT Codes

99213CPT Code

Established patient office visit, Level 3

Clinical Scenario

Used when a patient presents with left lower quadrant tenderness for evaluation.

Documentation Requirements

Document the history, examination findings, and medical decision-making.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the visit level reflects the complexity of the case.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of symptoms like left lower quadrant tenderness, improving the ability to track and analyze clinical data related to abdominal pain.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of symptoms like left lower quadrant tenderness, improving the ability to track and analyze clinical data related to abdominal pain.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of symptoms like left lower quadrant tenderness, improving the ability to track and analyze clinical data related to abdominal pain.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of documenting left lower quadrant tenderness?

Documenting left lower quadrant tenderness is crucial for identifying potential underlying conditions, guiding treatment, and ensuring accurate coding for reimbursement.