ICD-10 Code C86.3 – Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code C86.3 – Subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma
What it is
C86.3 identifies subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma, a rare cutaneous T-cell lymphoma that primarily involves the fatty tissue under the skin. Use it for documented lymphoma with a panniculitis-like pattern, not for nonspecific skin inflammation.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical descriptions include subcutaneous nodules or plaques, often on the legs or trunk, with pathology showing lymphoma cells infiltrating subcutaneous fat.
When to use this code
Use C86.3 when the clinician documents this specific lymphoma or pathology confirms subcutaneous panniculitis-like T-cell lymphoma. It is appropriate for confirmed diagnoses in inpatient, outpatient, and oncology records. If the record only says panniculitis, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ordinary panniculitis, cellulitis, or other non-malignant inflammatory skin disorders. If the diagnosis is uncertain or only suspected, check documentation and code the confirmed condition instead.
Coding tip
Verify the exact lymphoma subtype in the pathology or provider note before assigning C86.3.