ICD-10 Code L02.811 – Cutaneous abscess of head [any part, except face] (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L02.811 – Cutaneous abscess of head [any part, except face]
What it is
L02.811 identifies a localized skin abscess on the head, excluding the face. It refers to a confined collection of pus in the cutaneous tissues, usually from a bacterial infection.
Clinical signs
You may see a tender, swollen, red, and fluctuant lesion with possible drainage. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the exact site and whether the abscess is cutaneous and not facial.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a cutaneous abscess on the scalp, forehead hairline, or another nonfacial head location. It fits a skin abscess only; confirm the note does not describe a deeper infection or a facial site.
If documentation is unclear about location or type, check documentation before assigning the code. The record should support that the abscess is on the head and specifically excludes the face.
Do not use for
Do not use L02.811 for abscesses on the face, internal head infections, or noncutaneous collections. If the site or depth is uncertain, check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify both anatomy and depth: head, not face, and cutaneous, not deeper tissue.