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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesL05.9

L05.9

Non-billable

Pilonidal cyst and sinus without abscess

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

Code Description

ICD-10 L05.9 is a used to indicate a diagnosis of pilonidal cyst and sinus without abscess.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A pilonidal cyst and sinus without abscess is a condition characterized by the formation of a cyst or sinus in the sacrococcygeal region, typically occurring in young adults. The condition arises from the accumulation of hair, skin debris, and other materials in a small cavity beneath the skin, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Clinically, patients may present with localized pain, swelling, and tenderness in the lower back area, particularly when sitting. The cyst may become infected, leading to an abscess, but in the case of L05.9, there is no abscess present. The anatomy involved includes the skin and subcutaneous tissue around the coccyx, where hair follicles may become obstructed. Disease progression can lead to recurrent infections and the formation of multiple cysts or sinuses if left untreated. Diagnostic considerations include a thorough physical examination and, if necessary, imaging studies to rule out other conditions. Treatment typically involves surgical intervention to excise the cyst and prevent recurrence, along with proper wound care to promote healing.

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

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

Pilonidal cysts can significantly impact patient quality of life, leading to pain and discomfort, especially in young adults. The condition may result in increased healthcare utilization due to recurrent infections and surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of pilonidal disease, including risk factors such as obesity and sedentary lifestyle, can help in developing preventive strategies and improving population health outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

Pilonidal cysts can significantly impact patient quality of life, leading to pain and discomfort, especially in young adults. The condition may result in increased healthcare utilization due to recurrent infections and surgical interventions. Understanding the epidemiology of pilonidal disease, including risk factors such as obesity and sedentary lifestyle, can help in developing preventive strategies and improving population health outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

Reimbursement considerations include the complexity of the surgical procedure performed, the patient's insurance coverage, and adherence to coding guidelines. Common denials may arise from insufficient documentation or incorrect coding, particularly if the condition is misclassified as having an abscess. Best practices include ensuring that all clinical notes are thorough and that the coding accurately reflects the patient's condition and treatment.

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 L05.9?

L05.9 covers pilonidal cysts and sinuses that are not associated with an abscess. It is important to differentiate this from related codes that indicate the presence of an abscess or other complications.

When should L05.9 be used instead of related codes?

L05.9 should be used when a patient presents with a pilonidal cyst or sinus that is not infected or does not have an abscess. If there are signs of infection or abscess formation, codes such as L05.0 should be considered.

What documentation supports L05.9?

Documentation should include a detailed clinical assessment, noting the absence of abscess, any symptoms experienced by the patient, and the treatment plan proposed. Photographic evidence may also be beneficial.