ICD-10 Code L50.9 – Urticaria, unspecified (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L50.9 – Urticaria, unspecified
What it is
L50.9 identifies urticaria when the specific type is not documented. Use it for hives or wheals with no clearer cause, subtype, or trigger recorded.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include transient, itchy wheals or raised plaques that may appear and disappear quickly. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L50.9 when the record states urticaria, hives, or wheals but does not specify allergic, physical, or other subtypes. It also fits when the clinician documents urticaria without further detail. If the note names a more specific form, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code when the documentation identifies a specific urticaria subtype or another skin eruption entirely. Check documentation if the record suggests angioedema without hives or a different rash diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code the most specific urticaria term documented, and query for clarification when the provider’s note is vague.