ICD-10 Code L03.112 – Cellulitis of left axilla (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L03.112 – Cellulitis of left axilla
What it is
L03.112 identifies cellulitis involving the left axilla. It is a bacterial skin and soft tissue infection of the left armpit area, typically affecting the dermis and subcutaneous tissue.
Clinical signs
Common findings include localized redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness in the left axilla. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for any drainage, spreading erythema, or associated lymph node involvement.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cellulitis specifically in the left axilla. It is appropriate when the infection site is clearly identified as the left armpit and no more specific organism or deeper infection is documented.
If the note only says “cellulitis” without location, check documentation before coding. Code the documented site rather than assuming laterality or extending the diagnosis to nearby shoulder or chest areas.
Do not use for
Do not use L03.112 for abscess, hidradenitis, dermatitis, or nonspecific skin irritation of the axilla. Check documentation if the record describes a deeper soft tissue infection or a different anatomic site.
Coding tip
Verify that “left axilla” is explicitly documented; laterality matters and should match the provider’s note.