ICD-10 Code L57 – Skin changes due to chronic exposure to nonionizing radiation (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L57 – Skin changes due to chronic exposure to nonionizing radiation
What it is
L57 identifies skin changes caused by long-term exposure to nonionizing radiation, such as sunlight or artificial ultraviolet sources. It covers chronic damage rather than an acute burn or brief exposure.
Clinical signs
Findings may include rough, thickened, scaly, or discolored skin in exposed areas. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the specific radiation-related skin change.
When to use this code
Use L57 when the record clearly links the skin condition to chronic nonionizing radiation exposure. This is appropriate for documentation of long-standing sun-related skin damage or other persistent radiation-induced skin changes. You should not use it for an isolated sunburn or an unrelated dermatitis.
Do not use for
Do not assign L57 for acute radiation injury, thermal burns, or nonspecific skin irritation without documented chronic nonionizing exposure. Check documentation if the cause is unclear.
Coding tip
Confirm that the provider documents chronic exposure and a causal link to nonionizing radiation before you code L57.