Name of the Condition

• Panniculitis affecting regions of neck and back, thoracolumbar region
• ICD-10 Code: M54.05

Summary

Panniculitis refers to inflammation of the subcutaneous fat tissue, which can cause painful nodules and skin changes. When it affects the neck and thoracolumbar region of the back, it can lead to discomfort and restrict movement.

Causes

• Autoimmune conditions
• Trauma or injury to the fatty tissue
• Infections
• Side effects of certain medications

Risk Factors

• Genetic predisposition
• Underlying autoimmune diseases
• History of physical trauma or injury to the back and neck area
• Certain infections

Symptoms

• Painful lumps or nodules under the skin
• Redness or swelling over affected areas
• Tenderness in the neck and upper back
• Fever and fatigue in some cases

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess skin changes and nodules
• Biopsy of affected tissue for histological analysis
• Imaging studies like MRI or ultrasound to evaluate the extent of inflammation

Treatment Options

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Corticosteroids for more severe cases to manage immune response
• Antibiotics if an infection is suspected as a cause
• Physical therapy to maintain mobility and function

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• Prognosis varies; with treatment, symptoms can improve significantly.
• Regular follow-up is important to monitor response to treatment and adjust as necessary.

Complications

• Chronic pain and discomfort if left untreated
• Possible progression to other areas of the body
• Reduced mobility and limitation of daily activities

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy diet and weight
• Regular exercise to strengthen surrounding muscles
• Avoiding known triggers that exacerbate symptoms

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent pain or swelling in the neck and back region
• Newly developed nodules or skin changes
• Fever accompanied by back or neck pain

Additional Resources

• American College of Rheumatology
• International Panniculitis Network
• Support groups for chronic pain management

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure accurate mapping of the specified region affected by panniculitis.
• Verify linkage of diagnosis to appropriate signs and symptoms documented.
• Avoid coding similar conditions without thorough confirmation from clinical documentation.