ICD-10 Code L98.46 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of face (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.46 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of face
What it is
L98.46 identifies a chronic ulcer on the face that is not caused by pressure. Use it when documentation shows a persistent open skin lesion with tissue breakdown in the facial region.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a nonhealing facial wound, visible skin loss, drainage, or surrounding inflammation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for location, chronicity, and whether the ulcer is full-thickness.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states a chronic, non-pressure ulcer of the face. It may apply to ulcers on the cheek, nose, lip, or other facial areas if the provider documents the site as facial.
Code it only when the ulcer is not documented as pressure-related, traumatic, infectious, or neoplastic. If the cause or exact site is unclear, check documentation before assigning L98.46.
Do not use for
Do not use L98.46 for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers on non-facial body sites. Also avoid it when the lesion is better described by another diagnosis, such as infection or malignancy.
Coding tip
Confirm both chronicity and facial location in the provider note before coding.