ICD-10 Code L02.53 – Carbuncle of hand (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L02.53 – Carbuncle of hand
What it is
L02.53 identifies a carbuncle on the hand, meaning a deeper skin infection made up of connected boils. Use it when documentation specifies a carbuncle involving the hand rather than a minor superficial lesion.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, red, and tender area with pus drainage or multiple openings. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a carbuncle of the hand, including the palm, dorsum, or finger region if the hand is the stated site. It fits localized skin infection records where the diagnosis is clearly written and no broader site code is more specific.
Do not use for
Do not use it for a simple furuncle, abscess without carbuncle documentation, or infection at another body site. Check documentation if the note only says “boil” or “skin infection.”
Coding tip
Code the anatomic site exactly as documented, and confirm “carbuncle” is stated before selecting L02.53.