ICD-10 Code L60.4 – Beau’s lines (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code L60.4 – Beau’s lines
What it is
Beau’s lines are transverse grooves or depressions in the nail plate. They usually reflect a temporary interruption of nail growth after illness, trauma, or another systemic stressor.
Clinical signs
You may see one or more horizontal ridges running across the nail, often on several nails. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation for the cause and whether the change is isolated or part of a broader condition.
When to use this code
Use L60.4 when the record specifically identifies Beau’s lines as the diagnosis or reason for evaluation. It fits cases where the nail finding is documented as a distinct abnormality, not just a vague nail complaint.
Apply it when the clinician notes transverse nail depressions and links them to a prior illness, injury, or other interruption of nail growth. Check documentation if the note only describes nonspecific nail changes.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for unrelated nail disorders such as discoloration, brittleness, or fungal infection unless Beau’s lines are documented. Do not assume the code from appearance alone.
Coding tip
Code the documented nail finding only when Beau’s lines are named or clearly described in the chart.