ICD-10 Code L98.43 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of abdomen (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.43 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of abdomen
What it is
L98.43 identifies a chronic skin ulcer on the abdomen that is not caused by pressure. Use it when the record documents a persistent open sore in the abdominal area with a non-pressure cause.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a nonhealing abdominal skin break, drainage, surrounding inflammation, or tissue loss. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the ulcer depth, chronicity, and any stated cause.
When to use this code
Use L98.43 when the provider documents a chronic ulcer of the abdominal wall and specifically states it is non-pressure related. It may appear in notes describing longstanding skin breakdown, wound care follow-up, or persistent abdominal ulceration. Check documentation for laterality or deeper cause details if present.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers or for abdominal wounds that are acute, surgical, or traumatic. If the chart does not clearly support a chronic non-pressure ulcer, check documentation.
Coding tip
Confirm the anatomic site and the non-pressure cause in the provider note before assigning L98.43.