Carbuncle of left hand

This code signifies a deep, painful, and often pus-filled infection of the hair follicles and surrounding subcutaneous tissue on the left hand. It is essentially a cluster of interconnected boils that typically drain through multiple openings.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a carbuncle located specifically on the patient's left hand. This diagnosis is supported by physical exam findings describing a localized, inflamed, and indurated lesion with multiple draining sinuses on the left hand.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "carbuncle" and not a single furuncle (boil).
• Verify the laterality is explicitly stated as "left hand" to avoid miscoding.
• Differentiate from cellulitis or abscess, which are distinct infections requiring different codes.