L03: ICD10 Code for Cellulitis and acute lymphangitis

L03 refers to Cellulitis and acute lymphangitis, a group of bacterial skin infections or inflammatory conditions that affect the skin, lymphatic tissue, or underlying subcutaneous areas. These conditions vary in severity from superficial infections like impetigo to deeper, more serious conditions like cellulitis or abscesses.

Symptoms

• Red, swollen, and painful skin – Common in cellulitis (L03) or abscesses (L02)
• Blistering or peeling – Characteristic of L00 (staphylococcal scalded skin)
• Crusting skin lesions – Seen in impetigo (L01)
• Painful lumps or drainage – Common with L02 and pilonidal cysts (L05)
• Fever and regional swelling – Indicate acute lymphadenitis (L04)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of Cellulitis and acute lymphangitis is clinical, based on physical examination. Pus culture, skin biopsy, ultrasound, and blood work may be needed to assess severity, rule out systemic infection, or confirm the bacterial organism responsible.

ICD10 Code Usage

ICD10 code L03 is used by dermatologists, infectious disease specialists, emergency physicians, and primary care providers. It supports coding for antibiotics, incision and drainage procedures, wound care, and surgical interventions in pilonidal disease.

Related Codes

• L00 – Staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome
• L01 – Impetigo
• L02 – Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle
• L04 – Acute lymphadenitis
• L05 – Pilonidal cyst and sinus
• L08 – Other local infections of skin and subcutaneous tissue

FAQs

Q1: What is ICD10 code L03?
A: It refers to Cellulitis and acute lymphangitis, a skin or soft tissue infection requiring topical or systemic treatment.

Q2: What’s the difference between L02 and L03?
A: L02 refers to localized abscesses and boils, while L03 includes more diffuse infections like cellulitis that spread through tissue layers.

Q3: Is L00 a pediatric condition?
A: Mostly yes—staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (L00) primarily affects infants and young children due to toxin-producing Staph aureus.

Q4: What are the risks of untreated L05?
A: Pilonidal cysts can become recurrent and lead to chronic infections or sinus tract formation requiring surgery.

Q5: Who treats these infections?
A: Dermatologists, general practitioners, ER doctors, and in some cases, general surgeons or wound care teams.

Conclusion

ICD10 code L03 ensures timely diagnosis and treatment of Cellulitis and acute lymphangitis, improving outcomes for patients with skin and soft tissue infections through accurate medical documentation and management.