ICD-10 Code L97.921 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of left lower leg limited to breakdown of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L97.921 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified part of left lower leg limited to breakdown of skin
What it is
This code identifies a chronic ulcer on the left lower leg caused by factors other than pressure, with skin breakdown limited to the epidermis or superficial skin layer. Use it when the location is unspecified within the left lower leg.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent open sore, superficial skin loss, and local wound changes such as drainage, redness, or delayed healing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states a chronic non-pressure ulcer on the left lower leg and specifies only skin breakdown. It fits outpatient, inpatient, or wound-care documentation when the exact site is not further defined. If the note identifies a deeper ulcer stage or a different anatomic site, choose the more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use it for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers on another leg location. Check documentation if the depth is beyond skin breakdown or if the left lower leg site is described more specifically.
Coding tip
Verify both laterality and ulcer depth before assigning L97.921.