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 CodesL02.224

L02.224

Billable

Furuncle of groin

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.224 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of furuncle of groin.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L02.224 refers to a furuncle (boil) located in the groin area, which is a painful, pus-filled bump that forms under the skin due to bacterial infection, most commonly by Staphylococcus aureus. Clinically, patients present with localized swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever or malaise in more severe cases. The groin region, being a warm and moist area, is particularly susceptible to such infections. Disease progression typically involves the formation of a painful nodule that may eventually rupture and drain pus. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination and, if necessary, culture of the pus to identify the causative organism. Differential diagnoses may include hidradenitis suppurativa, abscess, or other skin infections. Proper identification and coding of this condition are crucial for effective treatment and management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and potential laboratory tests.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve incision and drainage, antibiotics, and follow-up care.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and treatment plans are necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires accurate coding to differentiate from other skin infections.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the site or type of infection.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes regarding symptoms or treatment.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials if documentation does not support the diagnosis.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Primary medical specialty: 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

Secondary specialty: Infectious Disease

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

Furuncles, including those in the groin, can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort. They may lead to increased healthcare utilization, including outpatient visits and potential surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of skin infections, particularly in warm and moist areas, can help in developing preventive measures and improving population health outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Furuncles, including those in the groin, can significantly impact patient quality of life due to pain and discomfort. They may lead to increased healthcare utilization, including outpatient visits and potential surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of skin infections, particularly in warm and moist areas, can help in developing preventive measures and improving population health outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the procedure performed, such as incision and drainage, and the necessity of any follow-up care. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding. Best practices include thorough clinical notes, clear treatment plans, and ensuring that the diagnosis aligns with the procedures billed.

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 L02.224?

L02.224 specifically covers furuncles located in the groin area. This includes any localized skin infections that present as a boil, characterized by inflammation, pain, and pus formation. It does not cover other skin lesions or infections that may occur in the same region.

When should L02.224 be used instead of related codes?

L02.224 should be used when the clinical presentation specifically indicates a furuncle in the groin. If the infection is located in another area, such as the buttock or thigh, the corresponding codes (L02.223 or L02.225) should be utilized. Accurate site identification is crucial for proper coding.

What documentation supports L02.224?

Documentation for L02.224 should include a detailed clinical examination note describing the location, size, and characteristics of the furuncle, any associated symptoms, and the treatment plan. Laboratory results, if applicable, should also be included to support the diagnosis.