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Cutaneous abscess of abdominal wall
ICD10CM code
Name of the Condition
- Cutaneous abscess of the abdominal wall
- Medical Term: Abscess of abdominal wall
Summary
A cutaneous abscess of the abdominal wall is a localized collection of pus within the layers of the abdominal wall, typically resulting from an infectious process. It appears as a swollen, painful area that may be red and warm to the touch.
Causes
- Bacterial infection, often by Staphylococcus aureus
- Introduction of bacteria through a skin wound or puncture
- Poor hygiene or existing skin conditions
Risk Factors
- Poor immune function, such as in diabetic patients
- History of skin infections
- Surgical wounds or trauma to the abdominal area
- Obesity, as it may contribute to skin folds where bacteria can thrive
Symptoms
- Red, swollen lump on the abdominal wall
- Tenderness or pain in the affected area
- Warmth over the site of the abscess
- Possible drainage of pus if the abscess ruptures
Diagnosis
- Physical examination by a healthcare professional
- Ultrasound or CT scan to assess the size and depth of the abscess
- Laboratory analysis of pus (if drained) to identify causative bacteria
Treatment Options
- Incision and drainage to remove pus from the abscess
- Antibiotics to treat underlying bacterial infection
- Pain management with analgesics
- Warm compresses to encourage drainage and healing
Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With prompt treatment, most abscesses resolve completely.
- Follow-up is important to ensure the abscess does not recur or lead to further complications.
- Regular monitoring if underlying conditions, such as diabetes, are contributing factors.
Complications
- Spread of infection to surrounding tissue or bloodstream (sepsis)
- Recurrent abscess formation
- Potential scarring of the affected area
Lifestyle & Prevention
- Maintaining good personal hygiene to prevent infection
- Proper wound care and cleaning of any skin cuts or punctures
- Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes to reduce infection risk
When to Seek Professional Help
- Rapidly increasing size or persistent pain in a swollen area
- Fever or systemic signs of infection
- Failure of the abscess to improve with home treatment
Additional Resources
Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure clear documentation of the location (abdominal wall) of the abscess.
- Avoid confusion with other abscess codes by confirming the correct anatomical site and abscess type.
- Be attentive to any additional complications or underlying conditions that may require supplementary codes.