ICD-9-CM 478.24 is a billable medical code that can be used to indicate a diagnosis on a reimbursement claim, however, 478.24 should only be used for claims with a date of service on or before September 30, 2015. For claims with a date of service on or after October 1, 2015, use an equivalent ICD-10-CM code (or codes).
2015/16 ICD-10-CM J39.0 Retropharyngeal and parapharyngeal abscess
Approximate Synonyms
Abscess of retropharyngeal
Clinical Information
An accumulation of purulent material in the space between the pharynx and the cervical vertebrae. This usually results from suppuration of retropharyngeal lymph nodes in patients with upper respiratory tract infections, perforation of the pharynx, or head and neck injuries