ICD-10 Code L57.2 – Cutis rhomboidalis nuchae (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L57.2 – Cutis rhomboidalis nuchae
What it is
Cutis rhomboidalis nuchae is a chronic skin change on the back of the neck, usually from long-term sun exposure. It refers to thickened, leathery, patterned skin rather than an acute rash.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include coarse wrinkling, leathery texture, and a rhomboid or crisscross pattern on the posterior neck. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents cutis rhomboidalis nuchae, solar elastosis of the neck, or a similar sun-damage pattern in the posterior neck area. Code it when the condition is the reason for evaluation or is specifically recorded in the assessment. Check documentation if the note only mentions sun exposure without a diagnosis.
Do not use for
Do not use it for simple tanning, isolated wrinkles, or nonspecific dermatitis. If the record describes another sun-related lesion or a different skin disorder, choose the more specific diagnosis.
Coding tip
Assign L57.2 only when the diagnosis is explicitly documented and linked to the neck skin changes.