ICD-10 Code L02.11 – Cutaneous abscess of neck (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L02.11 – Cutaneous abscess of neck
What it is
L02.11 identifies a localized collection of pus in the skin or subcutaneous tissue of the neck. Use it when documentation states a cutaneous abscess specifically involving the neck.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a tender, swollen, warm, and erythematous neck lesion, sometimes with fluctuance or drainage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L02.11 when the record clearly documents a cutaneous abscess of the neck, whether described as a boil, abscess, or localized skin infection. It is appropriate for outpatient, emergency, or inpatient encounters when the neck location is confirmed. Check documentation if the site is deeper or unspecified.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for abscesses in other neck structures, such as deep neck space infections, or when the site is not the skin. If the documentation only says “abscess” without location, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm that the abscess is cutaneous and that the neck is the documented site before assigning L02.11.