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ICD-10 Coding for Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement(L52, L02.31)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Abscess with Erythema NodosumGluteal Erythema Nodosum

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement

L00-L99Primary Range

Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue

This range includes codes for skin conditions such as erythema nodosum and cutaneous abscesses.

Certain infectious and parasitic diseases

This range includes codes for infections that may cause or complicate erythema nodosum, such as Nocardiosis.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
L52Erythema nodosumUse when erythema nodosum is confirmed by clinical and histological findings.
  • Biopsy showing septal panniculitis
  • Elevated ESR/CRP
  • Negative bacterial cultures
L02.31Cutaneous abscess of buttockUse when a cutaneous abscess is confirmed in the buttock region.
  • Ultrasound showing fluid collection
  • Positive culture for bacteria

Clinical Decision Support

Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.

Key Information: How to code erythema nodosum with abscess

Essential facts and insights about Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement

Code L52 for erythema nodosum and L02.31 for a gluteal abscess. Ensure documentation supports both conditions.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for absceso erythema nodosum gluteos

Erythema nodosum
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of tender, non-fluctuant nodules

documentation Criteria

  • Biopsy confirms septal panniculitis

Applicable To

  • Tender nodules on the skin

Excludes

  • Tuberculous erythema nodosum (A18.4)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Biopsy showing septal panniculitis
  • Elevated ESR/CRP
  • Negative bacterial cultures

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing erythema nodosum with abscess

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation clearly differentiates between erythema nodosum and abscess.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Streptococcus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.8
Use when erythema nodosum is secondary to streptococcal infection.

Nocardiosis, unspecified

A43.9
Use when abscess is due to Nocardia infection.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Tuberculous erythema nodosum

A18.4
Use when erythema nodosum is due to tuberculosis.

Cellulitis of buttock

L03.316
Use when there is diffuse inflammation without a defined abscess.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L52.

Impact

Clinical: Misrepresents the patient's condition., Regulatory: Potential for audit discrepancies., Financial: May lead to incorrect billing.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify clinical findings before coding, Consult biopsy and culture results

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Misclassification can result in audit issues., Data Quality: Impacts accuracy of clinical data.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies whether lesions are nodular or purulent.

Impact

Confusing erythema nodosum with abscess can lead to audit issues.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure thorough documentation and use of biopsy results.

Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Erythema nodosum with concurrent abscess

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • History of recent infections
  • Physical exam findings
  • Biopsy and culture results

Example Documentation

Patient presents with tender nodules on buttocks and a separate fluctuant abscess. Biopsy confirms EN, culture shows Staph.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Buttock rash
Good Documentation Example
3 tender, erythematous nodules on buttocks; biopsy confirms septal panniculitis.
Explanation
The good example provides specific clinical findings and diagnostic confirmation.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Erythema Nodosum with Gluteal Involvement? Ask your questions below.

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