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ICD-10 Coding for Cellulitis of Foot(L03.112)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cellulitis of Foot. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

Foot CellulitisInfection of Foot Skin

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Cellulitis of Foot

L03.11-L03.119Primary Range

Cellulitis of lower limb

This range includes codes specific to cellulitis of the foot and other parts of the lower limb.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for cellulitis of foot

Essential facts and insights about Cellulitis of Foot

The ICD-10 code for cellulitis of the foot is L03.112. Ensure to document laterality and any underlying conditions.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for cellulitis of foot

Cellulitis of foot
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of erythema and swelling localized to the foot.

documentation Criteria

  • Document laterality and any underlying conditions.

Applicable To

  • Cellulitis of dorsum of foot
  • Cellulitis of plantar surface

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Erythema, warmth, and swelling of the foot
  • Elevated WBC count
  • Positive culture for bacterial infection

Code-Specific Risks

  • Risk of using unspecified codes when laterality is known.

Coding Notes

  • Ensure laterality is documented and coded accurately.

Ancillary Codes

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

Staphylococcus aureus as the cause of diseases classified elsewhere

B95.6
Use when culture confirms Staphylococcus aureus infection.

Open wound of foot

S91.3-
Use when cellulitis is secondary to an open wound.

Differential Codes

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

Osteomyelitis of foot

M86.37-
Bone involvement on imaging differentiates osteomyelitis from cellulitis.

Phlebitis and thrombophlebitis of lower extremities

I80.2
Presence of unilateral edema without warmth suggests thrombophlebitis.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cellulitis of Foot to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L03.112.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to inappropriate treatment if the cause is not identified., Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards., Financial: Potential for denied claims due to incomplete documentation.

Mitigation Strategy

Always ask about recent injuries or skin conditions., Include details of any wounds or ulcers in the documentation.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to reduced reimbursement due to lack of specificity., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Decreases the accuracy of health records.

Mitigation Strategy

Always document and code the specific side (left or right) of the foot.

Impact

Failure to document laterality can lead to audit flags.

Mitigation Strategy

Implement mandatory fields for laterality in EHR templates.

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 Cellulitis of Foot, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Cellulitis of Foot

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cellulitis of Foot. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Cellulitis of foot due to puncture wound

Specialty: Podiatry

Required Elements

  • Subjective symptoms
  • Objective findings
  • Assessment
  • Plan

Example Documentation

SUBJECTIVE: Pt reports increasing pain and redness in R foot 3 days after stepping on nail. OBJECTIVE: Temp 101.2°F, WBC 14.2. 3 cm erythematous, indurated area on plantar R foot with purulent drainage from 0.5 cm puncture wound. No crepitus or fluctuance. ASSESSMENT: Cellulitis of right foot (L03.112) secondary to infected puncture wound (S91.331A). PLAN: IV ceftriaxone, wound culture sent.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Foot looks infected.
Good Documentation Example
Tender, erythematous plaque (5x3 cm) on dorsum of left foot with +2 pitting edema. No abscess. CRP 62 mg/L. Cellulitis of left foot (L03.112) likely secondary to untreated tinea pedis (B35.3).
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the location, size, and potential cause of the cellulitis, improving clinical clarity and coding accuracy.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Cellulitis of Foot? Ask your questions below.

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