ICD-10 Code L97.501 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of other part of unspecified foot limited to breakdown of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.501 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of other part of unspecified foot limited to breakdown of skin
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on another part of an unspecified foot, with skin breakdown limited to the epidermis or superficial layer. It is used when the ulcer is not caused by pressure and the exact foot location is not further specified.
Clinical signs
Expect a persistent open sore on the foot with superficial skin loss, but without deeper tissue involvement. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for ulcer location, chronicity, and whether bone, muscle, or fat is exposed.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer on an unspecified foot location and the depth is limited to breakdown of skin. You should confirm that the provider describes the ulcer as chronic and not pressure-related. If the site is more specific, code to the documented foot area instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers with deeper tissue involvement. Check documentation if the ulcer is on a different foot site or if the depth extends beyond skin breakdown.
Coding tip
Verify both the non-pressure cause and the superficial depth before assigning L97.501.