Learn about axillary abscess (armpit abscess, underarm abscess) diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding, healthcare best practices, and treatment options. Find information on identifying, managing, and coding an axillary abscess for accurate medical records and optimal patient care. This resource provides relevant details for healthcare professionals, coders, and patients seeking information on this condition.
Also known as
Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle
Localized skin infections with pus formation, including axillary abscesses.
Other local infections of skin and subcutaneous tissue
Covers other specified localized skin infections, potentially including axillary abscess.
Local infection of skin and subcutaneous tissue, unspecified
Used for localized skin infections when a more specific code isn't available.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the axillary abscess associated with hidradenitis suppurativa?
Yes
Code L73.2 (Hidradenitis suppurativa of axilla)
No
Is the abscess superficial?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Bacterial infection in armpit, forming pus. |
| Inflammation of sweat glands, often painful. |
| Enlarged lymph nodes in the armpit. |
Missing documentation specifying right, left, or bilateral axillary abscess impacts coding accuracy and reimbursement.
Lack of documentation identifying the infection source (e.g., staph) can affect ICD-10 coding and treatment selection.
Associated complications like lymphadenitis or sepsis may be undercoded if not explicitly documented and linked to the abscess.
Q: How can I differentiate between a simple axillary abscess and a more serious deep tissue infection like necrotizing fasciitis in a patient presenting with an armpit abscess?
A: Differentiating a simple axillary abscess from necrotizing fasciitis requires careful clinical assessment. While both present with localized pain, swelling, and erythema, necrotizing fasciitis often exhibits rapid progression, severe pain disproportionate to the exam findings, systemic symptoms (fever, tachycardia, hypotension), and crepitus or skin discoloration. Simple abscesses typically respond to incision and drainage, whereas necrotizing fasciitis necessitates immediate surgical debridement and broad-spectrum antibiotics. Consider implementing a high index of suspicion for necrotizing fasciitis in patients with rapid deterioration or atypical presentation. Explore how imaging modalities like ultrasound or CT can aid in distinguishing between these conditions and guiding appropriate management. Learn more about the LRINEC score and its utility in risk stratification for necrotizing fasciitis.
Q: What are the best antibiotic treatment options for an uncomplicated axillary abscess after incision and drainage, considering MRSA prevalence and antibiotic stewardship principles?
A: Antibiotic therapy following incision and drainage of an uncomplicated axillary abscess is often unnecessary in immunocompetent patients. However, in cases of significant cellulitis, systemic symptoms, or immunocompromise, antibiotic coverage should be considered. Due to the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), empiric therapy should cover this pathogen. Options include clindamycin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), or doxycycline. For severe infections or those failing to respond to initial therapy, consider consulting infectious disease specialists and obtaining cultures for targeted antibiotic selection. Explore how local resistance patterns can inform antibiotic choices and consider implementing antibiotic stewardship principles by limiting duration of therapy and reassessing the need for continued antibiotics after 48-72 hours.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with an axillary abscess, also known as an armpit abscess or underarm abscess. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, tenderness, erythema, and warmth in the axillary region. The patient may also report restricted range of motion in the affected arm, fever, chills, and malaise. Physical examination reveals a palpable, fluctuant mass in the axilla. Differential diagnoses considered include hidradenitis suppurativa, lymphadenitis, and furuncle. Diagnosis of axillary abscess is confirmed based on clinical presentation and physical exam findings. Treatment plan includes incision and drainage of the abscess, wound packing, and antibiotic therapy to address the underlying infection. Patient education provided on wound care, pain management, and signs and symptoms of complications such as cellulitis or sepsis. Follow-up appointment scheduled to monitor healing progress and ensure complete resolution of the infection. ICD-10 code L02.01 (Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle of axilla) is appropriate for this diagnosis. Procedure codes for incision and drainage will be based on the complexity of the procedure performed.