ICD-10 Code L98.A129 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left upper arm with unspecified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A129 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left upper arm with unspecified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the left upper arm when the documentation does not specify the ulcer’s depth or severity. Use it for a persistent skin break not caused by pressure.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open sore on the left upper arm with delayed healing, drainage, or surrounding skin irritation. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents a chronic ulcer of the left upper arm and does not state whether it is limited to skin breakdown, fat layer, muscle, or bone. It also fits when the record confirms a non-pressure ulcer but leaves severity unspecified. Check documentation if laterality or chronicity is unclear.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, acute wounds, or ulcers at another body site. Do not assign it when the record specifies a different severity level or a more exact ulcer type.
Coding tip
Code the ulcer severity only from provider documentation; if the depth is not stated, use the unspecified severity code.