Carbuncle and furuncle of trunk

This code signifies a localized pyogenic infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue on the trunk. A furuncle (boil) involves a single hair follicle, while a carbuncle is a deeper, more extensive infection involving multiple interconnected furuncles. These lesions are typically painful, red, and swollen, often with a central pustule or draining sinus.

Use this code when documentation specifies a carbuncle or furuncle located on the patient's trunk, which includes the chest, abdomen, back, and pelvis. Supporting documentation should clearly identify the type of lesion and its anatomical site. This code is appropriate for both initial diagnosis and subsequent encounters related to the infection.

• Differentiate from other skin infections like cellulitis or abscesses, which have distinct ICD-9-CM codes.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states the trunk as the anatomical location; otherwise, a more general or site-specific code may be necessary.
• Consider an additional code for any associated systemic symptoms (e.g., fever, sepsis) if documented.