ICD-10 Coding for Abscess of Axilla(L02.411, L02.412, L02.419)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Abscess of Axilla. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Abscess of Axilla
L02.41-L02.419Primary Range
Cutaneous abscess of axilla
This range covers abscesses located in the axillary region, specifying laterality when known.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L02.411 | Cutaneous abscess of right axilla | Use when the abscess is located in the right axilla and is cutaneous. |
|
| L02.412 | Cutaneous abscess of left axilla | Use when the abscess is located in the left axilla and is cutaneous. |
|
| L02.419 | Cutaneous abscess of unspecified axilla | Use when the abscess is in the axilla but laterality is not documented. |
|
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: ICD-10 code for axillary abscess
Essential facts and insights about Abscess of Axilla
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for abscess axilla
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of abscess in right axilla
documentation Criteria
- Laterality must be specified
Applicable To
- Right axillary abscess
Excludes
- Hidradenitis suppurativa (L73.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of abscess in right axilla
- Exclusion of hidradenitis suppurativa
Code-Specific Risks
- Risk of incorrect laterality documentation
Coding Notes
- Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
L02.412 - Cutaneous abscess of left axilla
Use when the abscess is located in the left axilla and is cutaneous.
Applicable To
- Left axillary abscess
Excludes
- Hidradenitis suppurativa (L73.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of abscess in left axilla
- Exclusion of hidradenitis suppurativa
Coding Notes
Ensure laterality is documented to avoid unspecified coding.
L02.419 - Cutaneous abscess of unspecified axilla
Use when the abscess is in the axilla but laterality is not documented.
Applicable To
- Axillary abscess without specified laterality
Excludes
- Hidradenitis suppurativa (L73.2)
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Documentation of axillary abscess without laterality
Coding Notes
Avoid using this code if laterality is known.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
B95.62Differential Codes
Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.
Hidradenitis suppurativa
L73.2Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Abscess of Axilla to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L02.411.
Impact
Clinical: Leads to potential misdiagnosis or treatment errors., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: May result in denied claims or reduced payment.
Mitigation Strategy
Train staff to always check for laterality in documentation.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Data Quality: Decreases accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure laterality is specified and use L02.411 or L02.412 accordingly.
Impact
Coding without specifying laterality increases audit risk.
Mitigation Strategy
Implement checks to ensure laterality is documented.
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 Abscess of Axilla, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Abscess of Axilla
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Abscess of Axilla. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Simple axillary abscess
Specialty: Emergency MedicineRequired Elements
- Location
- Size
- Fluctuance
- Erythema
- Drainage
- Culture
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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