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 CodesE32.1

E32.1

Billable

Abscess of thymus

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 E32.1 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of abscess of thymus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

An abscess of the thymus is a localized collection of pus within the thymus gland, which is located in the anterior mediastinum. This condition can arise due to various infectious agents, including bacteria, and may be associated with underlying thymic disorders or systemic infections. The thymus plays a crucial role in the immune system, particularly during puberty when it is involved in the maturation of T-lymphocytes. An abscess can lead to significant complications, including respiratory distress, mediastinitis, or sepsis if not promptly diagnosed and treated. Symptoms may include fever, chest pain, cough, and difficulty breathing. Diagnosis typically involves imaging studies such as CT scans or ultrasound, and treatment often requires antibiotics and possibly surgical drainage. Understanding the implications of thymus disorders, especially in the context of puberty and polyglandular dysfunction, is essential for effective management and coding of this condition.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between abscess and other thymic conditions
  • Need for precise documentation of symptoms and imaging results
  • Potential for co-existing conditions affecting coding
  • Variability in treatment approaches impacting coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of clinical findings
  • Failure to specify the nature of the abscess
  • Misclassification of abscess as a benign condition
  • Lack of imaging results in the medical record

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Endocrinology

Documentation Requirements

Thorough documentation of hormonal assessments and any related endocrine disorders.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with thymic disorders presenting with hormonal imbalances or autoimmune conditions.

Billing Considerations

Endocrinologists should document any impact on growth or puberty development.

Pulmonology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed respiratory assessments and imaging studies.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with respiratory distress due to thymic abscess.

Billing Considerations

Pulmonologists should note any respiratory complications arising from the abscess.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use E32.1 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the abscess's nature and any associated conditions
  • Include relevant imaging and laboratory results to support the diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use E32.1 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

39400CPT Code

Thymectomy

Clinical Scenario

Performed in cases of recurrent thymic abscess or associated thymic tumors.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and indications.

Specialty Considerations

Surgeons should document any complications or findings during surgery.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of thymic disorders, including abscesses, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of thymic disorders, including abscesses, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of thymic disorders, including abscesses, which aids in better tracking and management of these conditions.

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 are the common symptoms of a thymic abscess?

Common symptoms include fever, chest pain, cough, and difficulty breathing, often requiring imaging for diagnosis.