ICD-10 Code L56.3 – Solar urticaria (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L56.3 – Solar urticaria
What it is
Use this code for solar urticaria, a rare photosensitive skin reaction triggered by exposure to sunlight or other ultraviolet light. It describes an immediate urticarial response rather than a chronic sunburn.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include itching, redness, and wheals appearing soon after light exposure, often on exposed skin. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Assign L56.3 when the record clearly documents solar urticaria as the diagnosis. Use it for encounters where the clinician links hives or whealing to sunlight or ultraviolet exposure. If the note only says “photosensitivity” without a specific diagnosis, check documentation.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for ordinary sunburn, other photodermatoses, or nonspecific rash after heat or sun exposure. Check documentation if the reaction is not clearly urticarial.
Coding tip
Look for explicit wording such as “solar urticaria” or “sunlight-induced hives” before assigning L56.3.