Wound Infection ICD-10-CM Codes

What ICD-10 Codes are Used for Wound Infection 

An ICD-10 code one can use for wound infection is L08.9: Local infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, unspecified. However, there are certain things to take into consideration before using this code:

• You can only use this code when the clinical information is unavailable or unknown. 
• You must use this code, even if many say to use a specific code when it accurately reflects the patient's condition. 
• Multiple layperson's terms can be synonymous with a wound infection. Double-check the diagnosis before using any type of code. 

Is the Wound Infection ICD code Billable?

Yes, L08.9: Unspecified local infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue is billable. 

Clinical Information

• Surgical tissue trauma, minor cuts, bites, or skin punctures can be infected. 
• Common pathogens can cause infections, but the most common ones are bacterial and fungal microorganisms like Staphylococcus (staph), Streptococcus (strep), MRSA, Clostridium, Aspergillus, Candida, and Clasdosporidium.
• Signs and symptoms of a wound infection are swelling, pain, redness, and warmth to the touch. In some cases, loss of the organ's function where the wound is located can also be considered a symptom. 
• Those who are most likely to get wound infections have poor hygiene, are malnourished, have a weakened immune system, have a lack of mobility, have poor blood circulation, are obese, and have diabetes. 
• The referring physician will examine the patient’s wound and check their health history to diagnose it.
• Treatment includes thoroughly cleaning the wound area, wound care, applying antibiotic creams, or ingesting antibiotic tablets/capsules. Severe case treatment may consist of antibiotics via IV drip and surgery. 

Synonyms Include:

• Abrasions
• Friction burns
• Insect bites
• Lacerations
• Open Wound
• Splinter
• Blister
• Superficial Injury