Carbuncle and furuncle of neck

This code represents a localized, deep-seated bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue on the neck, characterized by a painful nodule (furuncle) or a cluster of interconnected furuncles with multiple draining sinuses (carbuncle). These infections typically arise from Staphylococcus aureus and involve hair follicles.

Apply this code when documentation specifies a carbuncle or furuncle located on the neck. Supporting documentation should clearly indicate the anatomical site of the infection, such as "carbuncle of the posterior neck" or "furuncle on the lateral aspect of the neck."

• Differentiate from cellulitis or abscess of the neck, which are broader infections without the specific follicular involvement of a carbuncle or furuncle.
• Ensure the documentation explicitly states "neck" as the anatomical site; avoid using this code for similar lesions on other body parts.
• Do not use this code if the infection is described as an abscess without specific mention of it being a furuncle or carbuncle.