Cellulitis of flank

This code identifies an acute bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue specifically located on the flank. It is characterized by localized inflammation, erythema, warmth, swelling, and tenderness in the lateral abdominal region between the ribs and the hip.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates cellulitis affecting the patient's flank. This typically applies to cases of localized skin infection without evidence of deeper tissue involvement or systemic sepsis. Supporting documentation should specify the anatomical site as the flank.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "flank" as the anatomical site; avoid using this code for generalized abdominal cellulitis.
• Do not use this code if the cellulitis is associated with an open wound, as a more specific code linking the infection to the wound would be appropriate.
• Consider an additional code for the causative organism (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) if identified and documented.