ICD-10 Code L02.4 – Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle of limb (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L02.4 – Cutaneous abscess, furuncle and carbuncle of limb
What it is
L02.4 identifies a localized bacterial infection of the skin on an arm or leg, including a cutaneous abscess, furuncle, or carbuncle. Use it when the lesion is specifically documented as involving a limb.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a painful, red, swollen skin lesion with pus or drainage. A furuncle is centered on a hair follicle, while a carbuncle involves a cluster of connected boils; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents an abscess, boil, or carbuncle on an upper or lower limb. It also fits when the note clearly describes a cutaneous infection of the extremity without a more specific site code. Check documentation if the limb location is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use L02.4 for abscesses in the face, trunk, groin, or other non-limb sites. Do not assign it when the record only says “skin infection” without confirming abscess, furuncle, or carbuncle.
Coding tip
Code the limb site only when the documentation supports it; if the exact extremity location is missing, query the provider.