ICD-10 Code L98.A39 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified hand (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A39 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified hand
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the hand when the exact hand site is not specified. It describes a persistent open skin lesion that is not caused by pressure injury.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open sore on the hand with delayed healing, possible drainage, and surrounding skin changes. 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 hand but does not name the right or left hand or a more specific hand location. It is appropriate for outpatient, inpatient, or wound care documentation when the site remains unspecified. Check documentation if another ulcer type is described.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, traumatic wounds, or acute skin breaks. If the chart identifies a more specific hand site or laterality, code that instead.
Coding tip
Review the wound note carefully for laterality and exact hand location before assigning this unspecified code.