ICD-10 Code L72 – Follicular cysts of skin and subcutaneous tissue (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L72 – Follicular cysts of skin and subcutaneous tissue
What it is
L72 identifies follicular cysts of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, including common benign cysts that arise from hair follicles. You use it when documentation describes a follicular or epidermoid-type cyst without a more specific site or subtype.
Clinical signs
These cysts usually appear as slow-growing, round, movable skin lumps. They may be painless unless inflamed, infected, or ruptured; clinical features vary, so refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use L72 when the provider documents a follicular cyst, epidermal inclusion cyst, or similar benign cyst of the skin or subcutaneous tissue. It also fits encounters for evaluation, observation, or removal when the diagnosis is confirmed. If the record names a more specific cyst type or site, code that instead.
Do not use for
Do not use L72 for abscesses, lipomas, or other non-follicular skin masses. Check documentation if the lesion is malignant, congenital, or located in a deeper structure.
Coding tip
Match the code to the documented cyst type and confirm whether the provider specifies a more exact skin diagnosis.