ICD-10 Code L03.81 – Cellulitis of other sites (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L03.81 – Cellulitis of other sites
What it is
L03.81 identifies cellulitis affecting a body site other than the common locations covered by more specific codes. Use it when the record clearly documents cellulitis but does not name a more specific site.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include localized redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, and spreading skin inflammation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the exact site and whether the infection is superficial or deeper.
When to use this code
Use L03.81 when the clinician documents cellulitis at an unspecified “other” site, such as the trunk or another nonstandard location, and no more specific code is available. Confirm that the note supports an active bacterial skin infection rather than simple irritation or dermatitis.
If the provider names a precise anatomic site with a dedicated cellulitis code, choose that code instead. Check documentation when the record only says “skin infection” or “redness,” because those terms may not support cellulitis.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for abscess, erysipelas, dermatitis, or noninfectious skin inflammation. Also avoid it when a more specific cellulitis code matches the documented site.
Coding tip
Always code the most specific cellulitis site documented; use L03.81 only when the site is truly in the “other sites” category.