Cellulitis and abscess of unspecified digit

This code represents a bacterial infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, or a localized collection of pus, affecting an unspecified finger or toe. It indicates inflammation, redness, swelling, and pain without further specification of the exact digit involved.

Use this code when documentation clearly indicates cellulitis or an abscess of a digit, but the specific finger or toe (e.g., thumb, index finger, great toe) is not identified. This is appropriate for initial encounters where the exact location is not yet detailed, or when the provider explicitly states "unspecified digit."

• Avoid using this code if the specific digit is documented; instead, use a more precise code from the 681.0x or 681.1x series.
• Ensure the documentation supports either cellulitis or an abscess; do not use for other skin infections like paronychia or onychia.
• Consider an additional code for the causative organism (e.g., Staphylococcus aureus) if identified and documented.