Acute lymphadenitis of upper limb

This code signifies an acute inflammatory condition affecting the lymph nodes located in the arm, forearm, or hand. It typically presents as tender, swollen lymph nodes in the axilla or epitrochlear region, often in response to an infection or injury distal to the affected nodes.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates a sudden onset of inflammation in the lymph nodes of the upper extremity. This often accompanies a localized infection, such as cellulitis, an abscess, or a wound infection, within the drainage area of the affected lymph nodes.

• Ensure documentation specifies "acute" and "upper limb" to differentiate from chronic or generalized lymphadenitis.
• Always code the underlying cause of the lymphadenitis (e.g., bacterial infection, wound) first, if known and applicable.
• Distinguish from localized infections of the skin and subcutaneous tissue (e.g., cellulitis of the arm) which may be the cause rather than the diagnosis of the lymphadenitis.