ICD-10 Code L98.A191 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified upper arm limited to breakdown of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A191 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified upper arm limited to breakdown of skin
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the upper arm when the skin is broken but deeper tissues are not exposed. Use it when documentation specifies the ulcer is limited to breakdown of skin and the site is unspecified upper arm.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent open skin lesion with superficial tissue loss, drainage, or delayed healing. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the exact depth, laterality, and cause.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic ulcer of the upper arm that is not caused by pressure and is limited to skin breakdown. It is appropriate when the record does not specify right or left upper arm. If the note describes deeper tissue involvement, check documentation for a more specific code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, traumatic wounds, or ulcers with muscle, tendon, or bone exposure. Do not assign it if the documentation identifies a more specific upper-arm site or depth.
Coding tip
Confirm the ulcer is chronic, non-pressure, and limited to skin breakdown before assigning L98.A191.