Nonspecific lymphadenitis (I88)
ICD-10 code I88 and its subcodes classify various forms of nonspecific lymphadenitis, a condition involving inflammation of lymph nodes without a clearly identified cause. These codes guide accurate documentation of nonspecific lymph node inflammations in different anatomical regions.
The main code I88 covers general nonspecific lymphadenitis. Code I88.0 specifies nonspecific mesenteric lymphadenitis, which is inflammation of lymph nodes in the mesentery, also known under terms like superior or inferior mesenteric lymphadenopathy and conditions such as Masshoff's syndrome or Pasteurella multocida infection. I88.1 identifies chronic lymphadenitis excluding mesenteric sites, including axillary, inguinal, and cervical lymphadenopathy. Code I88.8 relates to other nonspecific types like histiocytic necrotizing or dermatopathic lymphadenitis. Lastly, I88.9 is used for unspecified nonspecific lymphadenitis, which may include conditions associated with Toxoplasma gondii infection or PFAPA syndrome. These ICD-10 codes enable precise classification of lymph node inflammations for clinical and billing purposes and help differentiate among commonly confused terms like mesenteric adenitis versus generalized lymphadenitis.
Instructional Notations
Type 1 Excludes
A type 1 excludes note is a pure excludes note. It means "NOT CODED HERE!" An Excludes1 note indicates that the code excluded should never be used at the same time as the code above the Excludes1 note. An Excludes1 is used when two conditions cannot occur together, such as a congenital form versus an acquired form of the same condition.
- acute lymphadenitis, except mesenteric L04
- enlarged lymph nodes NOS R59
- human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in generalized lymphadenopathy B20
Clinical Terms
The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.
Histiocytic Necrotizing Lymphadenitis
Development of lesions in the lymph node characterized by infiltration of the cortex or paracortex by large collections of proliferating histiocytes and complete or, more often, incomplete necrosis of lymphoid tissue.
Lymphadenitis
Inflammation of the lymph nodes.
Mesenteric Lymphadenitis
INFLAMMATION of LYMPH NODES in the MESENTERY.
Tuberculosis, Lymph Node
Infection of the lymph nodes by tuberculosis. Tuberculous infection of the cervical lymph nodes is scrofula.
