ICD-10 Code L98.A123 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left upper arm with necrosis of muscle (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A123 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left upper arm with necrosis of muscle
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the left upper arm that extends to and involves muscle necrosis. It describes a deep tissue loss wound that is not caused by pressure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent open ulcer on the left upper arm with exposed or destroyed muscle tissue. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for depth, laterality, and evidence of necrosis.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the left upper arm and specifically notes necrosis of muscle. The record should support the site, chronicity, and tissue depth. If the documentation only says “ulcer” or does not confirm muscle involvement, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use it for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers at another anatomic site. Do not assign it if muscle necrosis is not documented or cannot be confirmed from the record.
Coding tip
Verify laterality and depth in the provider note before coding, because this code is site-specific and requires documented muscle necrosis.