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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL02.512

L02.512

Billable

Cutaneous abscess of left hand

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L02.512 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cutaneous abscess of left hand.

Key Diagnostic Point:

L02.512 refers to a cutaneous abscess located on the left hand, which is a localized collection of pus within the dermis or subcutaneous tissue. Clinically, patients may present with symptoms such as swelling, redness, tenderness, and warmth in the affected area. The abscess may also be fluctuant, indicating the presence of pus beneath the skin. The anatomy involved primarily includes the skin layers (epidermis and dermis) and the subcutaneous tissue, which houses blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Disease progression can vary; if untreated, an abscess may lead to systemic infection or complications such as cellulitis. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, and in some cases, imaging studies may be warranted to assess the extent of the abscess. Laboratory tests, such as a complete blood count (CBC), may also be performed to evaluate for signs of infection. Proper identification and management of cutaneous abscesses are crucial to prevent further complications and ensure effective treatment.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and sometimes imaging.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve incision and drainage, antibiotics, and follow-up care.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed documentation of symptoms, treatment, and follow-up is necessary.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other abscess locations.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentifying the location or type of abscess.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete records of clinical findings or treatment provided.
  • 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: 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 L02.512 lies in its potential to lead to more serious infections if not treated promptly. Population health impact includes the need for timely intervention to prevent complications, which can increase healthcare utilization. Quality measures may focus on the effective management of skin infections, and epidemiological considerations highlight the prevalence of skin abscesses in various demographics, emphasizing the importance of appropriate coding and treatment.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The clinical significance of L02.512 lies in its potential to lead to more serious infections if not treated promptly. Population health impact includes the need for timely intervention to prevent complications, which can increase healthcare utilization. Quality measures may focus on the effective management of skin infections, and epidemiological considerations highlight the prevalence of skin abscesses in various demographics, emphasizing the importance of appropriate coding and treatment.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the procedure performed, such as incision and drainage, and any associated follow-up care. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding. Best practices include thorough documentation of the clinical findings, treatment provided, and patient follow-up to support the medical necessity of the services rendered.

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 L02.512?

L02.512 specifically covers cutaneous abscesses located on the left hand, which may arise from various causes, including bacterial infections, trauma, or foreign body reactions. It is essential to differentiate this from other types of skin infections, such as cellulitis or furuncles.

When should L02.512 be used instead of related codes?

L02.512 should be used when the abscess is specifically located on the left hand. If the abscess is on the right hand or another location, the corresponding codes (e.g., L02.511) should be utilized. Accurate coding is crucial for proper treatment and reimbursement.

What documentation supports L02.512?

Documentation should include a detailed history and physical examination, noting the size, location, and characteristics of the abscess, as well as any associated symptoms. Treatment notes, including incision and drainage procedures, and follow-up assessments are also essential.