ICD-10 Code L98.451 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of neck limited to breakdown of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.451 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of neck limited to breakdown of skin
What it is
This code identifies a chronic skin ulcer on the neck that is not caused by pressure and is limited to breakdown of the skin. Use it when documentation shows a superficial ulcer without deeper tissue involvement.
Clinical signs
Findings may include an open sore, superficial skin loss, and localized drainage or crusting on the neck. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for depth and whether the ulcer is limited to skin breakdown.
When to use this code
Use L98.451 when the provider documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the neck and specifically states it is limited to breakdown of skin. This fits superficial ulcers that have not extended into fat, muscle, or bone. If the depth is unclear, check documentation before assigning the code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, traumatic wounds, or ulcers at other anatomic sites. Also avoid it when documentation shows deeper tissue involvement or does not confirm a chronic non-pressure ulcer.
Coding tip
Confirm both the site and the ulcer depth in the note before coding.