ICD-10 Code L98.A298 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm with other specified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A298 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm with other specified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the forearm when the chart does not specify right or left side, and the severity is documented as other specified. Use it for a persistent skin breakdown that is not caused by pressure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open skin lesion on the forearm with delayed healing, drainage, or exposed tissue. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic ulcer of the forearm and does not identify which arm is affected. It also requires documentation that the ulcer is non-pressure and that the severity fits the “other specified” category. If the record names a different site or pressure-related ulcer, choose another code.
Do not use for
Do not use it for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers documented on a different anatomic site. Check documentation if laterality or ulcer severity is specified elsewhere in the record.
Coding tip
Confirm both the non-pressure nature and the unspecified forearm location before assigning L98.A298.