ICD-10 Code L02.13 – Carbuncle of Neck (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L02.13 – Carbuncle of neck
What it is
L02.13 identifies a carbuncle located on the neck. A carbuncle is a deeper skin infection made up of connected boils, usually involving multiple hair follicles.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, swollen, red, and tender area with drainage or pus. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the record does not clearly describe a neck carbuncle.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a carbuncle specifically on the neck. It also fits cases where the diagnosis is clearly stated as a neck carbuncle, even if the note describes surrounding inflammation or drainage.
If the documentation only says “boil,” “skin abscess,” or another site, you should not assume L02.13. Confirm the neck location and the carbuncle diagnosis in the record.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for furuncles, unspecified abscesses, or infections at another body site. Check documentation when the lesion type or location is unclear.
Coding tip
Code the anatomic site exactly as documented; “neck” must be stated or clearly supported in the note.