Costovertebral (angle) tenderness, left side

This code indicates the presence of pain or discomfort elicited upon palpation of the costovertebral angle (CVA) on the patient's left side. CVA tenderness is a common physical exam finding, often associated with renal or retroperitoneal pathology.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states left-sided costovertebral angle tenderness. This finding is frequently noted during evaluation for conditions such as pyelonephritis, kidney stones, or other kidney infections or inflammatory processes. The physician's physical exam notes should clearly document the location and presence of this tenderness.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "left side" to accurately assign this code.
• This code describes a symptom; always code the underlying definitive diagnosis if known and documented.
• Do not confuse with general abdominal pain or flank pain without specific CVA tenderness documented.