ICD-10 Code L98.A122 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left upper arm with fat layer exposed (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A122 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left upper arm with fat layer exposed
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the left upper arm with exposed fat layer. Use it when the wound is not caused by pressure and documentation confirms depth beyond the skin.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open ulcer, delayed healing, and visible subcutaneous fat in the wound bed. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for laterality, chronicity, and depth.
When to use this code
Use L98.A122 when the record clearly states a chronic ulcer of the left upper arm and specifies fat layer exposure. It fits outpatient, inpatient, and wound-care documentation when the ulcer is non-pressure in origin. If the site, laterality, or depth is unclear, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute traumatic wounds, or ulcers without documented fat layer exposure. Do not assign it if the left upper arm is not confirmed.
Coding tip
Verify both laterality and ulcer depth in the note; missing either detail can change the code selection.