2025 ICD-10-CM code L55.9
Sunburn, unspecified.
Medically necessary when the symptoms and severity of the sunburn require medical evaluation and treatment, such as pain management, prevention of infection, or treatment of complications like dehydration or severe blistering.
Diagnosis and treatment of sunburn.
In simple words: Sunburn of unspecified degree.
Sunburn, unspecified. Injury to the skin, with erythema, tenderness, and in some extreme cases blistering, following excessive exposure to sunlight; produced by ultraviolet rays not filtered out by clouds or water.
Example 1: A patient presents with red, painful skin after spending a day at the beach without sunscreen. The affected area is tender to the touch, but no blisters are present. The physician diagnoses unspecified sunburn., A patient with a history of photosensitivity develops mild erythema on their face and arms after minimal sun exposure. The physician documents unspecified sunburn., A patient reports experiencing sunburn after falling asleep in the sun. The documentation does not specify the degree of the burn, so the physician codes it as unspecified sunburn.
Location and severity of the sunburn. Presence or absence of blisters. Any associated symptoms like pain, tenderness, or swelling.History of sun exposure. Use of sunscreen or other protective measures.Past medical history related to photosensitivity.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Dermatology, Family Medicine, Primary Care, Emergency Medicine
- Place of Service:Office, Urgent Care Facility, Emergency Room - Hospital, Telehealth Provided in Patient’s Home, Telehealth Provided Other than in Patient’s Home