ICD-10 Code L02.1 – Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle of neck (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L02.1 – Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle of neck
What it is
This code identifies a localized skin infection on the neck, including a cutaneous abscess, furuncle, or carbuncle. Use it when the documentation specifies the neck as the site.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, red, and tender lesion with possible pus drainage. A furuncle is usually a single infected hair follicle, while a carbuncle involves clustered boils; check documentation if the type is unclear.
When to use this code
Use L02.1 when the record states an abscess, boil, or carbuncle of the neck and no more specific site code applies. It also fits when the provider documents a skin abscess of the neck without another underlying condition. If the infection is described elsewhere on the body, code the documented location instead.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for abscesses of other anatomic sites or for deeper neck infections involving noncutaneous tissues. Check documentation if the lesion is postoperative, traumatic, or part of a broader systemic infection.
Coding tip
Verify that the provider names the neck as the affected skin site before assigning L02.1.