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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL02.416

L02.416

Billable

Cutaneous abscess of left lower limb

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.416 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cutaneous abscess of left lower limb.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L02.416 refers to a cutaneous abscess located specifically in the left lower limb, which is a localized collection of pus within the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as localized swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area. The abscess may also exhibit fluctuance, indicating the presence of pus. The anatomy involved includes the skin layers, particularly the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, which can become infected due to various factors such as bacterial invasion, trauma, or obstruction of hair follicles. Disease progression can lead to systemic symptoms like fever if the infection spreads. Diagnostic considerations include physical examination, imaging studies like ultrasound to assess the extent of the abscess, and laboratory tests to identify the causative organism. Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, which may involve incision and drainage, along with antibiotic therapy if indicated.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical assessment and possibly imaging.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve surgical intervention and follow-up care.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of symptoms, treatment, and follow-up is necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to indicate the location and nature of the abscess.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentification of the limb or abscess type.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records of symptoms or treatment.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of supporting documentation.

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

The clinical significance of L02.416 lies in its potential to lead to more severe infections if not treated promptly. Population health impact includes the need for effective management of skin infections to prevent complications and reduce healthcare utilization. Quality measures may focus on timely intervention and appropriate antibiotic use. Epidemiologically, cutaneous abscesses are common, particularly in populations with higher rates of skin infections, necessitating awareness and effective treatment strategies.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of L02.416 lies in its potential to lead to more severe infections if not treated promptly. Population health impact includes the need for effective management of skin infections to prevent complications and reduce healthcare utilization. Quality measures may focus on timely intervention and appropriate antibiotic use. Epidemiologically, cutaneous abscesses are common, particularly in populations with higher rates of skin infections, necessitating awareness and effective treatment strategies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the procedure is medically necessary and supported by documentation. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding. It is essential to follow coding best practices, including using the most specific code available and ensuring that all services provided are clearly documented in the patient's medical record.

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 L02.416?

L02.416 covers cutaneous abscesses specifically located in the left lower limb, which may arise from infections, blocked glands, or trauma. It does not cover abscesses in other locations or those associated with systemic infections.

When should L02.416 be used instead of related codes?

L02.416 should be used when the abscess is confirmed to be in the left lower limb. If the abscess is in another location, such as the right lower limb or another part of the body, the corresponding code should be selected.

What documentation supports L02.416?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, description of the abscess, any imaging studies performed, treatment provided, and follow-up care. This ensures accurate coding and supports medical necessity.