Name of the Condition

• Cellulitis of Right Axilla
• Technical term: L03.111

Summary

Cellulitis of the right axilla is a bacterial skin infection affecting the area under the right arm (armpit). It leads to redness, swelling, warmth, and pain, and can spread rapidly if untreated.

Causes

Cellulitis is commonly caused by bacterial infections, often by Staphylococcus or Streptococcus species. The bacteria typically gain entry through breaks or cuts in the skin.

Risk Factors

• Compromised immune system
• Diabetes
• History of cellulitis
• Lymphedema
• Cuts or abrasions in the axilla
• Obesity

Symptoms

• Redness and swelling in the right axilla
• Pain or tenderness in the affected area
• Warmth over the skin
• Fever and chills (in more severe cases)
• Enlarged lymph nodes nearby

Diagnosis

• Physical examination of the affected area
• Patient history review
• Blood tests to check for bacterial presence
• Ultrasound or imaging, if abscess is suspected

Treatment Options

• Antibiotics: Oral or intravenous medications, depending on severity, to fight infection.
• Pain relief: Over-the-counter analgesics to alleviate discomfort.
• Hydration and rest: Support recovery and immune function.
• Elevation and warm compresses: Reduce swelling and discomfort.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With timely antibiotic treatment, the prognosis is typically good, and symptoms often improve within a few days. Follow-up may include monitoring for recurrence, especially in those with underlying risk factors.

Complications

• Abscess formation
• Sepsis or septicemia if infection spreads
• Chronic swelling or lymphedema

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintain good hygiene, especially underarms.
• Moisturize skin to prevent cracks.
• Promptly treat any cuts or abrasions.
• Weight management and control of blood sugar levels, if diabetic.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Rapidly spreading redness or swelling
• High fever or chills
• Severe pain or numbness
• Recurrent episodes of cellulitis

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• Local or online support groups for individuals with recurring skin infections

Tips for Medical Coders

• Confirm laterality: ensure "right axilla" is specified.
• Double check that the underlying cause aligns with those typical for cellulitis.
• Avoid errors related to coding for non-bacterial skin infections.