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 CodesL03.04

L03.04

Non-billable

Acute lymphangitis of toe

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.04 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of toe.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the toe is an inflammatory condition characterized by the infection of the lymphatic vessels, typically resulting from a bacterial infection, often following a skin injury or ulceration. Clinically, patients present with localized pain, swelling, and erythema of the toe, along with systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The anatomy involved includes the lymphatic vessels that drain lymph fluid from the toe, which can become obstructed or inflamed due to infection. Disease progression may lead to complications such as abscess formation or systemic infection if not treated promptly. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, history of recent trauma, and possibly imaging studies to assess the extent of lymphatic involvement. Laboratory tests may also be performed to identify the causative organism and guide antibiotic therapy. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Diagnostic complexity
  • Treatment complexity
  • Documentation requirements
  • Coding specificity

Audit Risk Factors

  • Common coding errors
  • Documentation gaps
  • Billing challenges

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

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 toe, while localized, can have significant clinical implications if not addressed promptly. It can lead to increased healthcare utilization due to complications such as abscess formation or systemic infection. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is essential, as it may affect populations with higher rates of skin injuries or infections. Quality measures related to timely diagnosis and treatment can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis of the toe, while localized, can have significant clinical implications if not addressed promptly. It can lead to increased healthcare utilization due to complications such as abscess formation or systemic infection. Understanding the epidemiology of this condition is essential, as it may affect populations with higher rates of skin injuries or infections. Quality measures related to timely diagnosis and treatment can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden on healthcare systems.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include ensuring that the diagnosis is clearly linked to the services rendered. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity. Coders should ensure that all relevant details, such as the extent of the infection and any associated procedures, are accurately captured in the medical record to support the claim.

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 L03.04?

L03.04 specifically covers acute lymphangitis localized to the toe, which may arise from bacterial infections such as streptococcal or staphylococcal infections following trauma or skin breakdown.

When should L03.04 be used instead of related codes?

L03.04 should be used when the lymphangitis is specifically localized to the toe. If the infection involves other areas, such as the foot or leg, other codes like L03.03 or L03.05 should be considered.

What documentation supports L03.04?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, history of any recent injuries, signs and symptoms of infection, and any laboratory results that support the diagnosis of acute lymphangitis.