Sunburn (L55)
The ICD-10 code for sunburn covers various degrees of skin damage caused by overexposure to sunlight or other electromagnetic radiation. These codes help specify the severity, ranging from first-degree to third-degree sunburns, or cases where the degree is unspecified.
The L55 section details sunburn conditions, with L55.0 identifying first-degree sunburn, also known as solar erythema, which involves redness and mild inflammation. L55.1 refers to second-degree sunburn, where blistering and more significant skin damage occur. L55.2 captures third-degree sunburn, the most severe form, involving deep skin injury. The code L55.9 is used when the sunburn degree is not specified. These distinctions are vital for accurate coding in cases of overexposure effects and help healthcare professionals document the specific condition precisely for treatment and billing.
Clinical Terms
The following clinical terms provide additional context, helping users better understand the clinical background and common associations for each diagnosis listed in this section. Including related terms alongside ICD-10-CM codes supports coders, billers, and healthcare professionals in improving accuracy, enhancing documentation, and facilitating research or patient education.
Sunburn
An injury to the skin causing erythema, tenderness, and sometimes blistering and resulting from excessive exposure to the sun. The reaction is produced by the ultraviolet radiation in sunlight.
