ICD-10 Code L03.116 – Cellulitis of left lower limb (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L03.116 – Cellulitis of left lower limb
What it is
L03.116 identifies cellulitis affecting the left lower limb. It describes a bacterial skin and soft tissue infection involving the leg, not a specific cause or organism.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, and spreading skin inflammation in the left leg. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cellulitis specifically in the left lower limb, such as the left thigh, calf, ankle, or foot. It is appropriate when the diagnosis is clearly stated in the assessment or impression. If laterality is not documented, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use L03.116 for cellulitis of the right leg, bilateral cellulitis, or unspecified lower-limb cellulitis. Do not assign it when the record describes only skin irritation, edema, or another noninfectious condition.
Coding tip
Confirm both laterality and an explicit cellulitis diagnosis in the note before selecting L03.116.