ICD-10 Code L03.313 – Cellulitis of chest wall (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L03.313 – Cellulitis of chest wall
What it is
L03.313 identifies cellulitis involving the chest wall. Use it for a bacterial skin and soft tissue infection of the chest area, not for deeper thoracic infections.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, and spreading skin inflammation over the chest wall. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cellulitis of the chest wall, chest skin, or similar wording indicating superficial infection in that area. It may also fit when the note clearly localizes cellulitis to the anterior, lateral, or unspecified chest wall. Check documentation if the site is unclear or if the infection is described as deeper than skin and subcutaneous tissue.
Do not use for
Do not use L03.313 for abscess, mastitis, postoperative wound infection, or pneumonia-related chest symptoms. If the record describes a different skin site or a deeper thoracic process, choose the more specific code.
Coding tip
Always confirm the exact anatomic site and whether the provider documents cellulitis alone or with another skin infection.