ICD-10 Code L98.A229 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left forearm with unspecified severity (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A229 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of left forearm with unspecified severity
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer located on the left forearm when the severity is not documented. Use it for a persistent skin breakdown that is not caused by pressure injury.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include an open sore on the left forearm with delayed healing, drainage, or exposed tissue. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly states a chronic ulcer of the left forearm and does not specify depth or severity. It is appropriate when the ulcer is non-pressure in origin and no more detailed severity category is documented. Check documentation if the note describes infection, necrosis, or another ulcer type.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, traumatic wounds, or acute skin injuries. If the site is not the left forearm or the severity is documented more specifically, choose the more precise code.
Coding tip
Confirm both the anatomic site and that the ulcer is non-pressure before assigning L98.A229.