ICD-10 Code L98.449 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of chest with unspecified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.449 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of chest with unspecified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic skin ulcer on the chest that is not caused by pressure. It is used when the ulcer’s severity is not documented or cannot be determined from the record.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings may include a persistent open skin lesion on the chest with delayed healing, drainage, or surrounding skin changes, but the chart must support the diagnosis.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer located on the chest and does not specify the depth or severity. It is appropriate for ongoing ulcers that are not clearly described as skin breakdown from pressure. If the record gives a more specific severity, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or surgical incisions. Check documentation if the lesion is described as infected, traumatic, or located elsewhere on the body.
Coding tip
Confirm both the chest location and the absence of documented severity before assigning L98.449.