What does ICD-10-CM code L03.90 mean?
L03.90 represents Cellulitis, unspecified. This condition is classified under Chapter 12 (Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue) in the ICD-10-CM coding system. Coders frequently reference this code as cellulitis icd 10, cellulitis left leg icd 10, cellulitis of left foot icd 10, or cellulitis right leg icd 10.
Code category and hierarchy
- Chapter: 12 – Diseases of the Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue (L00-L99)
- Category: L03
- Code: L03.90 – Cellulitis, unspecified
Guideline notes and coding considerations
Specificity Warning
L03.90 is an unspecified code. Query the provider for greater specificity when documentation suggests a more precise code is available. Using unspecified codes when specific codes exist may trigger audits.
- Specificity: Assign L03.90 only when documentation supports this specific diagnosis.
Learn the underlying rules in the ICD-10 Coding Guidelines, Specificity Requirements.
Documentation tips (what coders should confirm)
- Verify the clinical documentation supports the use of L03.90
- Query the provider for greater specificity if clinical details suggest a more precise code
When NOT to use L03.90
Do not assign L03.90 when the clinical scenario involves: when documentation provides enough detail for a more specific code. Review excludes notes and assign the most specific code supported by documentation.
Audit risk
L03.90 is an unspecified code. Payers and auditors may flag claims with unspecified codes when the medical record contains sufficient detail for a more precise diagnosis. Query the provider for specificity before submitting.
Validate L03.90 Against ICD 10 CM Coding Guidelines
Check this code against official guidelines for conflicts and compliance issues.
Related ICD-10 codes
Frequently Asked Questions
The ICD-10-CM code for cellulitis is L03.90, which represents cellulitis, unspecified. This code is also commonly referenced as cellulitis left leg icd 10, cellulitis of left foot icd 10, cellulitis right leg icd 10. Verify this code using the ICD Code Auditor to ensure guideline compliance.
Yes. L03.90 is an active ICD-10-CM diagnosis code used to classify cellulitis, unspecified for clinical documentation, reporting, and medical billing purposes.
Use the ICD Code Auditor to check L03.90 against official ICD-10-CM coding guidelines. The tool validates by fiscal year and patient gender to identify potential conflicts.
L03.90 should be used only when clinical documentation does not provide enough detail for a more specific code. Always query the provider when documentation suggests greater specificity is available, as unspecified codes may trigger audits and impact risk adjustment.
Documentation should clearly describe the clinical condition represented by L03.90 (Cellulitis, unspecified). Include relevant clinical findings, diagnostic test results, provider assessment, and the treatment plan. The diagnosis must be supported by the medical record and not based solely on lab results without clinical interpretation.
Sources
Reviewed by: Certified ICD-10 Coding & Risk Adjustment Specialist
Learn more about our Clinical Coding Review Process