Find comprehensive information on Pilonidal Abscess diagnosis, including clinical documentation, ICD-10 code L05, treatment options, and healthcare provider insights. Learn about pilonidal cyst, surgical drainage, wound care, postoperative care, and recurring pilonidal disease. This resource provides accurate medical coding information for healthcare professionals and clear explanations for patients seeking to understand their condition. Explore symptoms, causes, and prevention of pilonidal abscesses.
Also known as
Cutaneous abscess, furuncle, and carbuncle
Covers abscesses of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, including pilonidal abscess.
Pilonidal cyst
Includes pilonidal sinus with or without abscess.
Diseases of anus and rectum
May be relevant if the pilonidal abscess has rectal involvement.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the pilonidal abscess acute?
Yes
Is there sinus tract formation?
No
Is it a chronic pilonidal abscess?
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Pilonidal abscess: pus-filled sac in cleft |
| Pilonidal cyst: closed sac in cleft |
| Hidradenitis suppurativa: sweat gland infection |
Coding pilonidal abscess without specifying location (e.g., coccygeal, natal cleft) can lead to rejected claims and inaccurate data.
Miscoding acute and chronic pilonidal abscess (ICD-10 L05) impacts severity tracking, reimbursement, and quality metrics.
Insufficient clinical documentation to support pilonidal abscess diagnosis can trigger audits and denials for medical necessity.
Patient presents with complaints consistent with pilonidal cyst disease, specifically a pilonidal abscess. Chief complaint is pain and swelling in the sacrococcygeal region, with possible purulent drainage noted. On examination, a palpable, tender, fluctuant mass is identified in the natal cleft, suggestive of a pilonidal abscess. Surrounding erythema and induration are present, indicating inflammation. The patient reports symptoms such as pain with sitting and ambulation. No fever or chills are reported. Differential diagnoses considered include hidradenitis suppurativa, furuncle, and perianal abscess. Given the location and clinical presentation, a diagnosis of pilonidal abscess is made. Treatment plan includes incision and drainage of the abscess. Post-procedure care instructions will be provided, including wound packing and follow-up appointments. Patient education regarding pilonidal disease, including recurrence prevention strategies such as proper hygiene and hair removal, will be addressed. ICD-10 code H60.1, pilonidal sinus with abscess, is documented. CPT codes for incision and drainage will be determined based on the complexity of the procedure performed.