ICD-10 Code L03.0 – Cellulitis and acute lymphangitis of finger and toe (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L03.0 – Cellulitis and acute lymphangitis of finger and toe
What it is
L03.0 identifies a bacterial infection and inflammation of the skin and lymphatic vessels in a finger or toe. It is used when the record specifies cellulitis, acute lymphangitis, or both in these digits.
Clinical signs
Common findings include localized redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness of a finger or toe. Acute lymphangitis may show red streaking toward regional lymph nodes; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cellulitis or acute lymphangitis limited to a finger or toe. It also fits cases where the infection is described in one digit and no more specific site or organism is documented.
If the note names both finger and toe involvement, or only says “digit,” check documentation to confirm the exact anatomic site before coding. Code the documented condition as recorded, without assuming a broader skin infection.
Do not use for
Do not use L03.0 for cellulitis of the hand, foot, or other body areas. Also avoid it when the record describes a noninfectious inflammatory condition or when the anatomic site is unclear. Check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify that the infection is confined to a finger or toe; if the site is broader or unspecified, choose the more accurate code based on the note.