Cellulitis of chest wall
ICD-10 L03.313 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of cellulitis of chest wall.
Cellulitis of the chest wall is an acute bacterial infection affecting the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the chest area. Clinically, it presents with localized swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The anatomy involved includes the dermis and subcutaneous fat, which can become inflamed due to bacterial invasion, commonly from Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species. Disease progression can lead to complications such as abscess formation if not treated promptly. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough physical examination, patient history, and, when necessary, imaging studies to rule out deeper infections or abscesses. Laboratory tests may include blood cultures and complete blood counts to assess the severity of the infection and guide treatment decisions. Early recognition and appropriate antibiotic therapy are crucial to prevent systemic spread and complications.
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
Standard ICD-10-CM documentation requirements apply
Various clinical presentations within this specialty area
Follow specialty-specific billing guidelines
L03.313 covers cellulitis specifically localized to the chest wall, which may arise from skin breaks, surgical wounds, or other sources of bacterial entry. It is important to differentiate it from other skin infections such as abscesses or necrotizing fasciitis.
L03.313 should be used when the infection is specifically localized to the chest wall. If the infection is more generalized or involves other regions, other codes such as L03.31 (cellulitis, unspecified site) may be more appropriate.
Documentation should include a detailed description of the clinical presentation, including symptoms, physical examination findings, and any imaging or laboratory results that confirm the diagnosis of cellulitis of the chest wall.
