ICD-10 Code L98.A291 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm limited to breakdown of skin (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L98.A291 – Non-pressure chronic ulcer of unspecified forearm limited to breakdown of skin
What it is
This code identifies a chronic, non-pressure ulcer on the forearm when the skin breakdown is limited to the superficial layer. It does not describe a pressure injury or a deeper wound.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include a persistent open area on the forearm with loss of the epidermis and superficial dermis. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for ulcer depth, laterality, and cause.
When to use this code
Use this code when the record clearly documents a chronic non-pressure ulcer of the forearm and specifies breakdown of skin only. It fits outpatient, inpatient, or wound-care documentation when the site is the forearm and the ulcer is not due to pressure.
Confirm that the provider describes the ulcer as chronic and limited to skin breakdown. If the note does not identify the forearm or depth, check documentation before coding.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for pressure ulcers, traumatic wounds, or ulcers with deeper tissue involvement. Check documentation if the ulcer site is another arm location or if laterality is specified elsewhere.
Coding tip
Verify the exact anatomic site and ulcer depth in the note before assigning L98.A291.