Cellulitis of neck

This code identifies a bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue specifically located on the neck. It typically presents with localized redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness, often without a well-defined border. The infection can spread rapidly if untreated.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates cellulitis affecting the neck region. Supporting documentation should describe the characteristic signs of infection (e.g., erythema, edema, pain, warmth) and specify the neck as the affected anatomical site. This code is appropriate for both initial and subsequent encounters for this condition.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "neck" as the anatomical site; generalized cellulitis or cellulitis of other body parts will require a different code.
• Do not confuse with abscess of the neck (J39.0) or lymphadenitis of the neck (I88.9, R59.0).
• Consider an additional code for the causative organism if identified and documented (e.g., B95-B97 for bacterial agents).