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L02.2 – Cutaneous Abscess, Furuncle, Carbuncle of the Trunk
L02.2 is an ICD-10 code for a cutaneous abscess, furuncle, or carbuncle of the trunk. These purulent skin infections affect the chest, abdomen, and back.
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L02.2 is an ICD-10 code for a cutaneous abscess, furuncle, or carbuncle of the trunk. These purulent skin infections affect the chest, abdomen, and back.
What does ICD-10 Code L02.2 mean?
The ICD-10 code L02.2 classifies a cutaneous abscess, furuncle, or carbuncle of the trunk. This code is used in medical documentation and billing to identify purulent infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue located in the trunk region – including the chest, abdomen, back, flanks, and sides. It belongs to category L02 (Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle) within Chapter XII (Diseases of the skin and subcutaneous tissue) of the ICD-10 classification system.
Definitions of the Conditions
Cutaneous Abscess
A cutaneous abscess is a localized collection of pus within a newly formed cavity in the tissue. It arises from a local bacterial infection where immune cells (leukocytes) encapsulate dead bacteria and tissue debris. The abscess typically feels soft and fluctuant upon palpation and may drain spontaneously.
Furuncle
A furuncle (also known as a boil) is a deep, purulent inflammation of a hair follicle and the surrounding tissue. It usually starts as a firm, red nodule that progresses into a painful, pus-filled lesion. On the trunk, furuncles may appear on the back or chest where hair follicles are present.
Carbuncle
A carbuncle is a cluster of interconnected furuncles forming a larger, deeper area of infection. It is generally more painful and severe than a single furuncle and is often accompanied by systemic symptoms such as fever and fatigue.
Causes and Risk Factors
The most common causative organism is Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA). Contributing risk factors include:
- Sweating or skin irritation (e.g., from tight clothing)
- Minor skin injuries or abrasions
- Compromised immune system (e.g., diabetes mellitus, HIV infection)
- Poor hygiene
- Obesity
- Use of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medications
- Close contact with infected individuals
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of an L02.2 infection on the trunk include:
- Painful, red swelling on the chest, abdomen, or back
- Warmth over the affected area
- Fluctuance (fluid-filled feeling) in mature abscesses
- Spontaneous or provoked discharge of pus
- In severe cases: fever, chills, and general malaise
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually established clinically through inspection and palpation. Supplementary diagnostic measures may include:
- Ultrasound: To assess the depth and extent of the abscess
- Blood tests: When systemic infection is suspected (elevated CRP, leukocytosis)
- Wound swab and culture: To identify the causative organism and determine antibiotic sensitivity
Treatment
Conservative Measures
Small, superficial abscesses may be managed with moist heat (e.g., warm compresses) to promote maturation. Antibiotic therapy alone is generally insufficient for abscess-forming infections.
Surgical Treatment
The primary treatment is incision and drainage: the abscess is surgically opened and the pus is evacuated. After opening, the wound is irrigated and may be packed to prevent premature closure and recurrence.
Antibiotic Therapy
Antibiotics are particularly indicated in the following situations:
- Large or deep infections
- Signs of systemic involvement (fever, lymphadenopathy)
- Immunocompromised patients
- Suspected MRSA infection (then: trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, clindamycin, or linezolid)
Follow-up Care
Regular wound monitoring is important to ensure complete healing and prevent recurrence. In patients with recurring furuncles, carriage of Staphylococcus aureus (e.g., nasal colonization) should be evaluated and treated with decolonization protocols.
References
- World Health Organization (WHO): ICD-10 International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revision, Vol. 1. Geneva: WHO, 2019.
- Stevens DL et al.: Practice Guidelines for the Diagnosis and Management of Skin and Soft Tissue Infections: 2014 Update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA). Clinical Infectious Diseases, 59(2):e10–e52, 2014.
- Berger T, Elston D: Andrews' Diseases of the Skin: Clinical Dermatology. 13th edition. Elsevier, Philadelphia, 2020.
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