ICD-10 Code L98.A193 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified upper arm with necrosis of muscle (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A193 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified upper arm with necrosis of muscle
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the upper arm when the site is unspecified and the wound extends to necrosis of muscle. Use it for a long-standing skin breakdown that is not caused by pressure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open ulcer with chronic tissue loss, exposed or damaged deeper tissue, and necrotic muscle at the base. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the upper arm and specifies muscle necrosis, but does not identify a more exact arm location. You should code from the documented site and depth, not infer them. If the note only says “ulcer” or does not confirm chronicity or muscle involvement, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers without documented muscle necrosis. It is also incorrect when the chart identifies a different upper-extremity site or a more specific location.
Coding tip
Match the code to both the chronic non-pressure cause and the documented tissue depth before assigning it.