ICD-10 Code L90.5 – Scar conditions and fibrosis of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L90.5 – Scar conditions and fibrosis of skin
What it is
L90.5 identifies scar tissue and fibrotic change in the skin. Use it when documentation describes a scar, cicatrix, or localized skin fibrosis without a more specific diagnosis.
Clinical signs
Findings often include a visible healed area of skin with thickening, firmness, or altered texture. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the scar’s cause, location, and any associated symptoms.
When to use this code
Use L90.5 when the provider documents a scar condition or fibrosis of skin as the reason for the visit or an active finding. It may apply to postoperative scars, traumatic scars, or other healed skin changes when no more specific code is available.
Code it from the current documentation, not from a suspected history alone. If the record names a specific scar complication or a different skin disorder, choose the more precise code instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for keloids, hypertrophic scars, or active wounds unless the documentation specifically supports L90.5. Check documentation if the condition is better described by another diagnosis.
Coding tip
Confirm the provider’s exact scar description and site, then code the most specific documented condition.