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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL03.326

L03.326

Billable

Acute lymphangitis of umbilicus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L03.326 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of acute lymphangitis of umbilicus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Acute lymphangitis of the umbilicus is an inflammatory condition characterized by the infection of the lymphatic vessels surrounding the umbilical area. Clinically, it presents with redness, swelling, and tenderness around the umbilicus, often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and malaise. The condition typically arises from bacterial infections, most commonly due to Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species, which can enter through breaks in the skin or as a complication of umbilical cord care in neonates. The anatomy involved includes the skin and subcutaneous tissue surrounding the umbilicus, as well as the lymphatic vessels that drain this area. Disease progression can lead to more severe complications if left untreated, including abscess formation or systemic infection. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough clinical examination, history taking, and possibly imaging studies to assess the extent of lymphatic involvement. Laboratory tests may also be warranted to identify the causative organism and guide antibiotic therapy.

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

Pediatrics

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 umbilicus, while relatively uncommon, can have significant clinical implications, particularly in neonates where it may indicate poor hygiene or inadequate care. Understanding this condition contributes to improved population health outcomes by promoting better infection control practices. Quality measures may include monitoring rates of umbilical infections and ensuring adherence to guidelines for umbilical cord care, which can ultimately reduce healthcare utilization and improve patient outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Acute lymphangitis of the umbilicus, while relatively uncommon, can have significant clinical implications, particularly in neonates where it may indicate poor hygiene or inadequate care. Understanding this condition contributes to improved population health outcomes by promoting better infection control practices. Quality measures may include monitoring rates of umbilical infections and ensuring adherence to guidelines for umbilical cord care, which can ultimately reduce healthcare utilization and improve patient outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the case and the necessity for any diagnostic tests or procedures performed. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or failure to demonstrate medical necessity. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical findings are clearly documented and that the rationale for the selected code is evident 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 L03.326?

L03.326 specifically covers acute lymphangitis localized to the umbilicus, which may arise from infections or complications related to umbilical cord care in neonates or skin infections in older patients.

When should L03.326 be used instead of related codes?

L03.326 should be used when the lymphangitis is specifically localized to the umbilicus. If the infection is generalized or affects other areas, other codes such as L03.325 may be more appropriate.

What documentation supports L03.326?

Documentation should include clinical findings such as redness, swelling, and tenderness of the umbilicus, as well as any systemic symptoms. Laboratory results confirming infection and treatment plans should also be included.