ICD-10 Code L98.A121 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left upper arm limited to breakdown of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A121 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left upper arm limited to breakdown of skin
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the left upper arm that is limited to breakdown of the skin. It describes a superficial skin defect, not a deeper wound involving muscle, tendon, or bone.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open skin lesion with loss of the epidermis and possibly part of the dermis. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, chronicity, and depth.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states a chronic non-pressure ulcer on the left upper arm and specifies breakdown of skin only. It is appropriate when the provider documents site, laterality, and ulcer depth. Check documentation if the note does not confirm chronicity or if the lesion is described differently.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers at another body site. Do not use it if documentation shows deeper tissue involvement than skin breakdown alone.
Coding tip
Confirm the ulcer is non-pressure and that the left upper arm is documented before assigning L98.A121.