Acute lymphangitis of unspecified toe

This diagnosis code signifies an acute bacterial infection of the lymphatic vessels in an unspecified toe, characterized by inflammation and often presenting as red streaks extending from the infection site. It indicates a sudden onset and rapid progression of the lymphatic inflammation.

Apply this code when documentation specifies acute lymphangitis affecting any toe, without further anatomical specificity (e.g., great toe, second toe). This code is appropriate when the physician's notes clearly indicate an acute inflammatory process of the lymphatic system in the toe, often accompanied by symptoms like pain, tenderness, and erythema.

• Ensure documentation specifies "acute" and "lymphangitis" of the toe. If chronic, a different code is required.
• Avoid using this code if a more specific toe (e.g., great toe, other toe) is documented; look for codes with greater anatomical specificity.
• Always sequence this code after the underlying infection (e.g., cellulitis, wound infection) if one is identified as the cause of the lymphangitis.