Name of the Condition

• Cutaneous Abscess, Unspecified
• Also known simply as a skin abscess.

Summary

• A cutaneous abscess is a localized infection characterized by a collection of pus underneath the skin. It appears as a swollen, red, tender area, often painful, due to the body's response to infection.

Causes

• Primarily caused by bacterial infections, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus.
• Other causes may include foreign materials penetrating the skin, blocked oil or sweat glands, or minor skin injuries.

Risk Factors

• Risk factors include poor hygiene, close contact with infected persons, weakened immune system, existing skin conditions, and breakage in the skin integrity.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include raised, red, painful lumps that are warm to the touch. Some abscesses may also cause fever and general malaise.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider.
• In some cases, a sample of the pus might be drained and cultured to determine the bacteria causing the infection.

Treatment Options

• Treatment often involves incision and drainage to remove the pus.
• Antibiotic therapy may be prescribed if there is a significant infection or risk of spreading.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With proper treatment, the prognosis is generally good, and most recover without complications.
• Follow-up may be necessary to ensure the infection has cleared and to monitor for recurrences.

Complications

• Possible complications include spread of the infection to deeper tissues (cellulitis), recurrence, or systemic infection (sepsis).

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Good personal hygiene and wound care can help prevent abscesses.
• Avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors, and maintain a healthy immune system through a balanced diet and regular exercise.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Seek medical attention if an abscess is large, becomes more painful, or is accompanied by fever.
• Immediate help is necessary if there are signs of spreading infection or systemic illness (e.g., high fever, chills, spreading redness).

Additional Resources

• Mayo Clinic: Skin Abscess
• American Academy of Dermatology: Abscess

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the coding reflects the documentation of an unspecified skin abscess to distinguish from other specific types.
• Avoid common errors such as misclassifying under cysts or other dermatologic conditions.