ICD-10 Code K68.12 – Psoas muscle abscess (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code K68.12 – Psoas muscle abscess
What it is
K68.12 identifies an abscess in the psoas muscle, a deep infection with pus collection in the retroperitoneal muscle near the spine and hip. Use it when the record clearly documents a psoas muscle abscess.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings may include back, flank, groin, or hip pain, fever, limp, or pain with hip movement, but you should code only when the abscess is documented.
When to use this code
Use K68.12 when the provider diagnoses a psoas muscle abscess, whether found on imaging, during surgery, or by other documented evaluation. It also fits when the note specifies a psoas abscess without naming another primary site.
If the chart describes an iliopsoas or retroperitoneal abscess, confirm whether the psoas muscle is specifically involved. When documentation is unclear, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for nonspecific back pain, muscle strain, or a suspected infection without confirmation. Do not substitute it for abscesses in other locations unless the psoas muscle is documented.
Coding tip
Match the code to the exact anatomic site in the provider note and imaging report; if the psoas is not clearly named, verify the documentation.