In simple words: This code describes a pilonidal cyst (a small bump near the tailbone) that's infected and filled with pus (an abscess).It needs medical attention to drain the pus and treat the infection.

L05.01, Pilonidal cyst with abscess, is an ICD-10-CM code used to classify a pilonidal cyst that has developed into an abscess.A pilonidal cyst is a skin cyst that typically forms in the cleft of the buttocks.The abscess indicates the presence of a localized collection of pus due to infection.This code should be used when the pilonidal cyst is actively infected and has formed an abscess.An additional code may be necessary to specify the infectious agent.

Example 1: A patient presents with a painful, swollen lump near the tailbone, accompanied by fever and redness.Physical examination reveals a fluctuant abscess in a pilonidal cyst. Incision and drainage are performed., A patient with a known pilonidal cyst experiences sudden increased pain, swelling, and purulent drainage.Diagnosis of an acute pilonidal abscess is made.The abscess is drained, and antibiotics are prescribed., A patient undergoes surgical excision of a pilonidal cyst, but a postoperative infection develops resulting in a pilonidal abscess.The abscess is drained, and the patient receives intravenous antibiotics.

Complete history and physical examination, including documentation of location, size, and characteristics of the abscess, evidence of infection (fever, leukocytosis, elevated inflammatory markers), imaging studies (ultrasound or CT scan if needed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions), and details of the procedure performed (incision and drainage or other surgical intervention).

** This code should not be used for congenital sacral dimples or parasacral dimples.Always ensure that appropriate documentation supports the diagnosis of a pilonidal cyst with abscess.