ICD-10 Code L72.3 – Sebaceous cyst (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L72.3 – Sebaceous cyst
What it is
L72.3 identifies a sebaceous cyst, a benign skin cyst usually arising from a blocked hair follicle or skin gland. It commonly refers to a slow-growing, round lump under the skin.
Clinical signs
You may see a movable, firm or fluctuant subcutaneous nodule, sometimes with a central punctum. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation if the lesion is inflamed, painful, or draining.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a sebaceous cyst or uses equivalent wording for a benign cystic skin lesion. It is appropriate when the record clearly identifies the lesion and does not specify a different cyst type. If the note only says “lump” or “mass,” check documentation before assigning L72.3.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for abscesses, infected skin lesions, or other specified cysts such as epidermal inclusion cysts unless documented as sebaceous cyst. Check documentation when the diagnosis is uncertain.
Coding tip
Capture the provider’s exact cyst terminology, since similar skin lumps may map to a different ICD-10 code.