Acute lymphangitis of back [any part except buttock]

This code signifies an acute bacterial or inflammatory infection of the lymphatic vessels located on the back, excluding the buttocks. It typically presents as red, tender streaks extending from an infection site towards regional lymph nodes, often accompanied by fever and malaise.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates acute inflammation of the lymphatic channels specifically affecting the back. This diagnosis is supported by physician notes detailing the characteristic red streaking, tenderness, and systemic symptoms localized to the back region.

• Ensure the documentation specifies "acute" lymphangitis; chronic cases are coded differently.
• Verify the anatomical site is explicitly "back" and not another body region to avoid miscoding.
• Always code the underlying infection (e.g., cellulitis, wound infection) first, if known, as the primary diagnosis.