Abscess ICD-10-CM Codes
Explore ICD-10-CM codes for abscesses in 2023. Learn about common codes, billable statuses, and gain clinical insights in this comprehensive guide.
Fact Checked by Ericka Pingol.
What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Abscess
An abscess is a painful collection of pus caused by infection. Here are commonly used ICD-10-CM codes for various types of abscesses, along with brief clinical descriptions:
- L02.91 - Cutaneous abscess, unspecified: Used for abscesses that occur in the skin but are not further specified in location.
- L02.92 - Furuncle, unspecified: Applied when a furuncle, which is a type of abscess of a hair follicle, is diagnosed without specifying the location.
- L02.93 - Carbuncle, unspecified: Utilized for carbuncles, which are larger and deeper skin abscesses, when the location is not further specified.
- J85.0 - Abscess of lung: Used for lung abscesses, which are collections of pus within the lung tissue.
- K61.0 - Anal abscess: Applied for perianal abscesses, localized collections of pus near the anal opening.
- K12.2 - Intraoral (periodontal) abscess: Utilized for abscesses in the mouth, particularly in the periodontal or gum area.
- L02.311 - Cutaneous abscess of right hand: Used when a cutaneous abscess is on the right hand.
- L02.312 - Cutaneous abscess of left hand: Applied when a cutaneous abscess is on the left hand.
- L02.32 - Cutaneous abscess of buttock: Utilized for cutaneous abscesses on the buttocks.
- L02.39 - Other cutaneous abscess: Used for cutaneous abscesses occurring in areas not classified under more specific codes.
Which Abscess ICD Codes are Billable
The billable status of the mentioned ICD-10 codes for abscesses varies:
- L02.91 - Cutaneous abscess, unspecified: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for unspecified cutaneous abscesses can be claimed.
- L02.92 - Furuncle, unspecified: Yes, billable. Costs associated with unspecified furuncles can be reimbursed.
- L02.93 - Carbuncle, unspecified: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for unspecified carbuncles can be claimed.
- J85.0 - Abscess of lung: Yes, billable. Expenses for lung abscesses can be claimed.
- K61.0 - Anal abscess: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for anal abscesses can be claimed.
- K12.2 - Intraoral (periodontal) abscess: Yes, billable. Costs associated with intraoral abscesses in the periodontal area can be reimbursed.
- L02.311 - Cutaneous abscess of right hand: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for cutaneous abscesses on the right hand can be claimed.
- L02.312 - Cutaneous abscess of left hand: Yes, billable. Expenses for cutaneous abscesses on the left hand can be claimed.
- L02.32 - Cutaneous abscess of buttock: Yes, billable. Medical expenses for cutaneous abscesses on the buttocks can be claimed.
- L02.39 - Other cutaneous abscess: Yes, billable. Costs associated with other cutaneous abscesses can be reimbursed.
Clinical Information
- An abscess is a localized collection of pus, a thick fluid containing white blood cells, dead tissue, and bacteria.
- Diagnosis involves a clinical evaluation, including assessing the area for redness, swelling, pain, and the presence of a fluctuant mass (a lump that feels fluid-filled).
- Treatment typically involves incision and drainage to remove the pus and relieve pressure and pain.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed if there's concern about an associated infection or if the abscess is in a high-risk area.
- Patients should be educated on proper wound care, hygiene, and the importance of completing any prescribed antibiotics.
- Follow-up may be necessary to ensure proper healing and address any recurrent abscesses.
- Sometimes, patients may be referred to a specialist for evaluation and further management if the abscess is complex or located in a critical area.
Synonyms Include
- Pus-filled Infection
- ICD-10 Abscess
- Abscess Types
- Skin Abscess
- Oral Abscess
- Internal Abscess
Commonly asked questions
A bacterial infection typically causes abscesses. Bacteria enter the body, and the immune system responds by creating a pocket of pus to contain and fight the infection.
Treatment involves draining the abscess through a small incision or other means to relieve pain and remove the pus. Antibiotics may be prescribed if there is an associated infection.
Yes, abscesses can recur, especially if the underlying infection is not fully treated. Proper drainage and antibiotics can help prevent recurrence. Recurrent abscesses may also be associated with underlying medical conditions.
