Left lower quadrant pain
ICD-10 R10.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of left lower quadrant pain.
Left lower quadrant pain (LLQ pain) refers to discomfort or pain localized in the left lower abdomen. This symptom can arise from various underlying conditions affecting the gastrointestinal, urinary, reproductive, or musculoskeletal systems. Common causes include diverticulitis, ovarian cysts, ectopic pregnancy, and renal colic. Patients may present with acute or chronic pain, which can be sharp, dull, or cramping in nature. Associated symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, changes in bowel habits, urinary symptoms, or menstrual irregularities. Clinical evaluation often involves a thorough history and physical examination, focusing on the onset, duration, and character of the pain, as well as any accompanying symptoms. Diagnostic imaging, such as ultrasound or CT scans, may be warranted to identify the underlying cause. Laboratory tests may include complete blood counts, urinalysis, and pregnancy tests to rule out specific conditions. Accurate coding requires careful documentation of the patient's symptoms, clinical findings, and any diagnostic tests performed.
Detailed history of present illness, physical examination findings, and any diagnostic tests performed.
Patients presenting with LLQ pain due to diverticulitis or inflammatory bowel disease.
Ensure documentation reflects the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as any relevant past medical history.
Acute care documentation including triage notes, vital signs, and immediate interventions.
Acute presentations of appendicitis or ectopic pregnancy requiring urgent evaluation.
Document the acute nature of the presentation and any immediate diagnostic imaging or lab tests performed.
Used when a patient presents with LLQ pain requiring moderate complexity evaluation.
Document the history, examination, and medical decision-making involved.
Emergency medicine documentation must reflect the urgency of the presentation.
Document the patient's history, the nature of the pain, any associated symptoms, and results of diagnostic tests to support the use of R10.32.
