ICD-10 Coding for Cervical Lymphadenitis(L04.0, A18.2)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Cervical Lymphadenitis. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Cervical Lymphadenitis
L04.0-L04.9Primary Range
Acute lymphadenitis
This range includes codes for acute lymphadenitis affecting various regions, including the cervical area.
Tuberculous peripheral lymphadenopathy
This code is used when cervical lymphadenitis is due to tuberculosis.
Enlarged lymph nodes
These codes are used for non-specific lymphadenopathy when the cause is not identified.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| L04.0 | Acute lymphadenitis of face, head, and neck | Use when acute bacterial infection is confirmed in cervical lymph nodes. |
|
| A18.2 | Tuberculous peripheral lymphadenopathy | Use when TB is the confirmed cause of lymphadenitis. |
|
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 cervical lymphadenitis
Essential facts and insights about Cervical Lymphadenitis
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for cervical lymphadenitis
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Presence of erythema, tenderness, and fever.
documentation Criteria
- Detailed note on node characteristics and lab results.
Applicable To
- Acute bacterial lymphadenitis
Excludes
- Chronic lymphadenitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Unilateral node involvement
- Erythema and tenderness
- Fever >38°C
- WBC >12,000/μL
Code-Specific Risks
- Misclassification as non-specific lymphadenopathy
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies bacterial etiology and clinical findings.
A18.2 - Tuberculous peripheral lymphadenopathy
Use when TB is the confirmed cause of lymphadenitis.
Applicable To
- Tuberculous cervical lymphadenitis
Excludes
- Non-tuberculous lymphadenitis
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Positive AFB stain or TB PCR
- History of TB exposure
Coding Notes
Ensure TB confirmation through lab tests.
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
B95.6Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Cervical Lymphadenitis to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L04.0.
Impact
Clinical: Impacts treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document culture results., Include organism identification in notes.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding specificity requirements., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Use L04.0 or A18.2 when bacterial or TB etiology is confirmed.
Impact
Frequent use of R59.9 without supporting documentation.
Mitigation Strategy
Ensure detailed documentation of clinical findings and etiology.
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 Cervical Lymphadenitis, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Cervical Lymphadenitis
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Cervical Lymphadenitis. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Acute bacterial cervical lymphadenitis
Specialty: Infectious DiseaseRequired Elements
- Node size and location
- Skin changes
- Systemic signs
- Lab results
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
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