ICD-10 Code L98.44 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of chest (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.44 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of chest
What it is
L98.44 identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer located on the chest. Use it when the record documents a persistent skin breakdown in that area and the cause is not pressure-related.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open sore, delayed healing, drainage, or surrounding skin changes on the chest. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic ulcer of the chest and does not describe it as a pressure injury. It may apply to longstanding wounds with ongoing tissue loss or nonhealing skin breakdown. Confirm the chest site and chronic nature in the note.
Do not use for
Do not use L98.44 for pressure ulcers or for wounds on another body site. If the documentation is unclear about location or ulcer type, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify that the ulcer is explicitly documented as non-pressure and located on the chest before assigning L98.44.