ICD Code L03.116

ICD code L03.116 is a medical classification used to specify a diagnosis of cellulitis of the left lower limb. This code is part of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10), which is used by healthcare providers to accurately document and bill for medical conditions. Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can cause redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area, and this specific code indicates that the infection is located in the left lower limb.

1. Redness and Swelling: The affected area on the left lower limb exhibits noticeable redness and swelling, indicating inflammation.

2. Warmth: The skin over the left lower limb feels warm to the touch, suggesting an active infection.

3. Pain and Tenderness: The patient experiences pain and tenderness in the left lower limb, which may worsen with movement or pressure.

4. Skin Changes: The skin may appear tight, glossy, or stretched over the affected area, with possible blistering or pus formation.

5. Fever and Chills: The patient may present with systemic symptoms such as fever and chills, indicating the body's response to the infection.

6. Lymph Node Enlargement: Swelling of nearby lymph nodes, such as those in the groin, may occur as the body attempts to fight the infection.

7. Rapid Onset: Symptoms typically develop quickly, often within a few hours to a couple of days, and may progress rapidly if not treated.

8. History of Skin Injury: There may be a recent history of skin injury, such as a cut, abrasion, or insect bite, which could have served as an entry point for bacteria.

9. Underlying Conditions: Consideration of any underlying conditions that may predispose the patient to cellulitis, such as diabetes, venous insufficiency, or lymphedema.

10. Exclusion of Other Conditions: Ensure that other potential causes of similar symptoms, such as deep vein thrombosis or dermatitis, are ruled out through clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing.

For the ICD code L03.116, which pertains to cellulitis of the left lower limb, the relevant CPT codes that may be applicable for treatment include:

1. 99201-99205: Evaluation and Management (E/M) services for new patients, depending on the complexity and time spent.

2. 99211-99215: E/M services for established patients, again depending on the complexity and time spent.

3. 11042-11047: Debridement codes, which may be used if the cellulitis requires surgical intervention to remove necrotic tissue.

4. 97597-97598: Debridement codes for selective debridement, including removal of devitalized tissue from wounds.

5. 96372: Therapeutic, prophylactic, or diagnostic injection (specifically for antibiotic administration).

6. 20600-20611: Aspiration and/or injection into a joint or bursa, which might be used if there is an associated abscess or fluid collection.

7. 36415: Collection of venous blood by venipuncture, which may be necessary for laboratory testing to monitor infection.

8. 87070-87075: Culture and sensitivity tests, which may be performed to identify the causative organism and appropriate antibiotic treatment.

These CPT codes are examples of procedures and services that might be utilized in the management and treatment of cellulitis of the left lower limb, as indicated by ICD code L03.116. The specific codes used will depend on the individual patient's treatment plan and the healthcare provider's clinical judgment.

Discover how MD Clarity's RevFind software can enhance your revenue cycle management by accurately reading your contracts and detecting underpayments for CPT codes associated with ICD code L03.116. Schedule a demo today to see how RevFind can help ensure you're receiving the full reimbursement you deserve.