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2025 ICD-10-CM code L03.039

Cellulitis of an unspecified toe.

The correct selection of this code depends on accurate documentation. Use the most specific code available when possible.Additional codes may be required to describe the infectious organism and any complications.

Medical necessity is established by the presence of signs and symptoms consistent with cellulitis (e.g., erythema, edema, pain, tenderness).The decision to code L03.039 relies on appropriate documentation supporting the diagnosis and excluding other conditions.

The clinical responsibility involves diagnosing and treating the cellulitis.This includes taking a thorough history, performing a physical examination, ordering appropriate tests (such as cultures to identify the causative organism), and prescribing antibiotics.Wound care and monitoring for complications may also be necessary.

IMPORTANT:Consider using additional codes (B95-B97) to identify the specific infectious agent if known.Codes L03.031 and L03.032 should be used if the specific toe (right or left) is known.Other related codes might include those for abscesses or lymphangitis depending on the clinical presentation.

In simple words: This code is for a bacterial infection of a toe, causing it to become red, swollen, and painful.The doctor doesn't know which toe is infected.

This ICD-10-CM code classifies cellulitis affecting a toe, where the specific toe is not identified.Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection causing redness, swelling, and pain. This code is used when the location is limited to a toe, but the exact toe is unknown or not specified in the medical record.

Example 1: A 65-year-old male presents to the clinic with a swollen, painful, and erythematous toe.The patient is unable to specify which toe is affected.Physical examination confirms cellulitis of an unspecified toe.Blood cultures and wound cultures are sent.The patient is started on antibiotics and advised on wound care., A 22-year-old female athlete presents to the emergency department following a sports injury to her foot.She has a swollen and painful toe but cannot pinpoint exactly which one. A medical examination reveals signs consistent with cellulitis of an unspecified toe. After the injury is addressed, antibiotics and further monitoring are implemented., An 80-year-old patient residing in a nursing facility develops a swollen and painful toe. The patient has diminished cognitive function. Medical staff determines it's cellulitis of an unspecified toe and initiates appropriate treatment, including antibiotics and diligent monitoring for any worsening or spreading of the infection.

Detailed history of the present illness, including onset, duration, and any contributing factors (such as trauma or underlying medical conditions).Physical examination documenting the location, extent, and severity of the cellulitis.Results of any diagnostic tests (e.g., cultures, blood tests).Treatment plan and response to treatment.Progress notes documenting the resolution of infection.

** This code should only be used when the affected toe cannot be identified.Ensure proper documentation of the clinical findings to support the diagnosis of cellulitis.

** Only Enterprise users with EHR integration can access case-specific answers. Click here to request access.

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iFrame™ AI's knowledge is aligned with and limited to the materials uploaded by users and should not be interpreted as medical, legal, or any other form of advice by iFrame™.