ICD-10 Code L98.A299 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm with unspecified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A299 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm with unspecified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure skin ulcer on the forearm when the exact side, depth, or severity is not documented. Use it for a persistent open lesion that is not caused by pressure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a localized open sore, loss of skin tissue, drainage, or delayed healing on the forearm. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the forearm but does not specify laterality or severity. It also fits when the ulcer is documented without enough detail to assign a more specific code. Check documentation for cause and anatomic detail before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, traumatic wounds, or acute skin injuries. If the chart identifies a more specific site, laterality, or severity, code that instead.
Coding tip
Review the note for cause, chronicity, location, and laterality; unspecified details should only be coded when they are truly not documented.