Facebook tracking pixelScrotal Abscess - AI-Powered ICD-10 Documentation
N49.1
ICD-10-CM
Scrotal Abscess

Find comprehensive information on scrotal abscess diagnosis, including clinical documentation, medical coding (ICD-10), treatment options, and differential diagnosis. Learn about signs, symptoms, causes, and management of scrotal abscesses for accurate healthcare records and optimal patient care. This resource provides valuable insights for physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals involved in the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. Explore reliable medical information on scrotal abscess, its associated complications, and best practices for clinical practice.

Also known as

Scrotal Wall Abscess
Inflammatory Disorder of Scrotum

Diagnosis Snapshot

Key Facts
  • Definition : A collection of pus within the scrotum.
  • Clinical Signs : Painful, swollen, red scrotum. Fever may be present.
  • Common Settings : Community-acquired, often related to skin infections or STIs.

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to AAPC N49.1 Coding
N50-N51

Disorders of male genital organs

Covers various male genital disorders including scrotal conditions.

L00-L99

Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue

Includes skin infections and abscesses that may affect the scrotum.

I86-I89

Noninfective disorders of veins, lymphatic vessels

May be relevant if scrotal abscess is secondary to vascular issues.

Code Comparison

Related Codes Comparison

When to use each related code

Description
Scrotal Abscess
Epididymitis
Scrotal Cellulitis

Documentation Best Practices

Documentation Checklist
  • Scrotal abscess ICD-10 code: Locate & document (N49.0)
  • Document abscess size, location (L/R/bilateral)
  • Record surrounding skin involvement (erythema, edema)
  • Palpation findings: fluctuance, tenderness, induration
  • Differential diagnosis considered and ruled out

Coding and Audit Risks

Common Risks
  • Unspecified Laterality

    Coding scrotal abscess without specifying right, left, or bilateral can lead to claim rejections and inaccurate data reporting. Use L98.41- for laterality.

  • Missing Etiology

    Failing to document the cause of the abscess (e.g., infection, trauma) can impact DRG assignment and reimbursement. Clarify etiology in clinical notes.

  • Incorrect I10 Sequencing

    If scrotal abscess is due to hypertension, ensure I10 is sequenced correctly. Inaccurate sequencing can lead to incorrect coding and reimbursement issues.

Mitigation Tips

Best Practices
  • Document abscess size, location, and any cellulitis. ICD-10: L02.41
  • Thorough H&P crucial for accurate diagnosis, impacts coding. CDI query for clarity.
  • Culture drainage for targeted antibiotic therapy. HCC coding implications.
  • Image if complex/deep. Ultrasound preferred. Supports medical necessity, compliance.
  • Post-op documentation vital. Capture I&D details, packing. CPT: 10060/10061

Clinical Decision Support

Checklist
  • 1. Verify painful, swollen scrotum documented.
  • 2. Confirm physical exam findings: tenderness, erythema.
  • 3. Check labs: WBC, possible cultures if indicated.
  • 4. Ultrasound findings consistent with abscess noted.

Reimbursement and Quality Metrics

Impact Summary
  • Scrotal Abscess Reimbursement: ICD-10 N63.0, CPT incision and drainage codes (e.g., 55100), impacting MS-DRG assignment and payment.
  • Coding Accuracy Impact: Precise documentation of abscess location, size, and drainage method crucial for correct code selection.
  • Quality Metrics Impact: Post-op infection rates, pain management, and patient satisfaction scores influence hospital quality reporting.
  • Hospital Reporting Impact: Accurate scrotal abscess coding affects infection control data and resource utilization reporting.

Streamline Your Medical Coding

Let S10.AI help you select the most accurate ICD-10 codes for . Our AI-powered assistant ensures compliance and reduces coding errors.

Quick Tips

Practical Coding Tips
  • Code primary scrotal abscess diagnosis
  • Document abscess location, size, etiology
  • Consider I&D code, if performed
  • Check for systemic infection codes
  • Rule out Fournier's gangrene

Documentation Templates

Patient presents with complaints consistent with scrotal abscess.  Symptoms include scrotal pain, swelling, tenderness, erythema, and possible purulent drainage.  Onset of symptoms reported as [duration].  Associated symptoms may include fever, chills, malaise, and inguinal lymphadenopathy.  Physical examination reveals [description of findings, e.g., fluctuant mass, induration, localized tenderness, size of abscess].  Differential diagnosis includes epididymitis, orchitis, Fournier's gangrene, inguinal hernia, and testicular torsion.  Diagnosis of scrotal abscess confirmed based on physical exam findings and patient history.  Ultrasound of the scrotum may be performed to confirm the presence of an abscess and rule out other conditions.  Treatment plan includes incision and drainage of the abscess under local anesthesia.  Wound care instructions provided, including warm compresses and appropriate hygiene.  Antibiotics such as [specific antibiotic name and dosage] prescribed to address the infection.  Patient education provided regarding potential complications such as recurrence, sepsis, and infertility.  Follow-up appointment scheduled in [duration] to monitor healing and ensure resolution of the infection.  ICD-10 code:  L02.91 (Scrotal abscess).  CPT codes for procedures performed will be documented separately.