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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.022

L03.022

Billable

Acute lymphangitis of left finger

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.022 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of left finger.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the left finger is an inflammatory condition characterized by the infection of the lymphatic vessels, typically resulting from bacterial infections, most commonly due to Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and erythema of the affected finger, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The anatomy involved includes the lymphatic vessels that drain lymph from the finger to regional lymph nodes. Disease progression can lead to complications such as abscess formation or systemic spread of the infection if not treated promptly. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, history-taking to identify potential sources of infection, and possibly imaging studies to assess for abscess formation. Laboratory tests may include blood cultures and complete blood counts to evaluate for systemic infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure a favorable outcome.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity: Requires clinical evaluation and possible imaging.
  • Treatment complexity: May involve antibiotics and, in some cases, surgical intervention.
  • Documentation requirements: Detailed clinical notes and history are essential.
  • Coding specificity: Requires precise coding to differentiate from other skin infections.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors: Misidentifying the affected limb or misclassifying the condition.
  • Documentation gaps: Incomplete clinical notes that do not support the diagnosis.
  • Billing challenges: Potential denials due to lack of specificity in documentation.

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

Acute lymphangitis of the left finger, while localized, can have significant clinical implications if not treated promptly. It can lead to increased healthcare utilization, including emergency visits and potential hospitalizations. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is vital, as it can affect various populations, particularly those with compromised immune systems or chronic skin conditions. Quality measures should focus on timely diagnosis and effective treatment to minimize complications and improve patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis of the left finger, while localized, can have significant clinical implications if not treated promptly. It can lead to increased healthcare utilization, including emergency visits and potential hospitalizations. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is vital, as it can affect various populations, particularly those with compromised immune systems or chronic skin conditions. Quality measures should focus on timely diagnosis and effective treatment to minimize complications and improve patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations may vary based on the payer, so it is crucial to verify coverage policies. Common denials may occur if the documentation does not adequately reflect the complexity of the condition or if the coding lacks specificity. Best practices include using precise coding, maintaining thorough documentation, and ensuring that all relevant clinical information is included in the 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 L03.022?

L03.022 specifically covers acute lymphangitis localized to the left finger, which is an infection of the lymphatic vessels. It is important to differentiate it from other skin infections such as cellulitis or abscesses.

When should L03.022 be used instead of related codes?

L03.022 should be used when there is a confirmed diagnosis of acute lymphangitis specifically affecting the left finger, as opposed to other types of infections or lymphangitis affecting different body parts.

What documentation supports L03.022?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, history of present illness, physical examination findings, and any laboratory results that confirm the diagnosis of acute lymphangitis.