Abdominal tenderness, unspecified site

This code signifies the presence of pain or discomfort upon palpation of the abdomen, without a specific anatomical location identified. It indicates a general finding of abdominal tenderness when the precise site cannot be determined or is not documented.

Use this code when the medical record documents "abdominal tenderness" without further specification of the quadrant or region (e.g., epigastric, right lower quadrant). This is appropriate for initial assessments or when the exact location of tenderness is diffuse or unclear. Documentation should clearly state the presence of tenderness without a more specific site.

• Avoid using this code if a more specific site of tenderness (e.g., R10.11 for right upper quadrant tenderness) is documented.
• This code should generally be considered a symptom code; look for a definitive diagnosis if available and sequence accordingly.
• Do not use if the tenderness is associated with a specific organ or condition that has its own dedicated code.