Left lower quadrant rebound abdominal tenderness
ICD-10 R10.824 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of left lower quadrant rebound abdominal tenderness.
Left lower quadrant rebound abdominal tenderness is a clinical sign that indicates irritation of the peritoneum, often associated with acute abdominal conditions. This sign is elicited during a physical examination when the examiner presses down on the left lower quadrant of the abdomen and then quickly releases the pressure. The patient experiences increased pain upon release, which suggests peritoneal irritation. Common causes of this sign include appendicitis, diverticulitis, and other inflammatory processes in the left lower abdomen. It is crucial for healthcare providers to assess this sign in conjunction with other symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel habits to determine the underlying cause. Laboratory findings may include elevated white blood cell counts and imaging studies may reveal inflammation or abscess formation. Accurate identification and documentation of rebound tenderness are essential for appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning.
Detailed notes on the patient's history, physical examination findings, and any relevant lab results.
Patients presenting with abdominal pain, fever, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
Consideration of chronic conditions that may mimic acute presentations.
Acute care documentation must include time of onset, severity of pain, and associated symptoms.
Patients with acute abdominal pain requiring immediate evaluation.
Rapid assessment and documentation are critical due to the potential for surgical intervention.
Used when a patient presents with rebound tenderness and requires moderate complexity evaluation.
Document the history, examination findings, and medical decision-making process.
Emergency medicine providers should ensure rapid documentation to support the visit level.
Rebound tenderness is a critical sign of peritoneal irritation, often indicating serious underlying conditions such as appendicitis or diverticulitis. It requires prompt evaluation and management.
