ICD-10-CM 2027
ICD-10 code for Photosensitivity
From the official ICD-10-CM alphabetic index entry “Photosensitivity, photosensitization (sun) skin”. Page updated September 29, 2026.
About coding Photosensitivity
The ICD-10-CM code for Photosensitivity is L56.8 (Other specified acute skin changes due to ultraviolet radiation). The official index lists 1 more specific code, so check the documentation for details such as type, cause, site or severity before settling on L56.8.
Within L56, choose L56.8 (Other specified acute skin changes due to ultraviolet radiation) only when documentation doesn't support a more specific option: drug phototoxic response (L56.0), drug photoallergic response (L56.1), Photocontact dermatitis [berloque dermatitis] (L56.2), solar urticaria (L56.3), Polymorphous light eruption (L56.4), disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis (DSAP) (L56.5) and acute skin change due to ultraviolet radiation, unspecified (L56.9).
Use an additional code to identify the source of the ultraviolet radiation (W89, X32).
It is not a CC or MCC, so as a secondary diagnosis it doesn't change the MS-DRG severity level.
More specific Photosensitivity codes (official index)
- light other than sun L59.8 — Other specified disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue related to radiation
Common questions about Photosensitivity ICD-10 codes
What is the ICD-10 code for Photosensitivity?
- L56.8 — Other specified acute skin changes due to ultraviolet radiation. More specific codes apply when the documentation supports them: L59.8.
What is the ICD-10 code for light other than sun photosensitivity?
- L59.8 — Other specified disorders of the skin and subcutaneous tissue related to radiation.
Is L56.8 billable?
- Yes. L56.8 is a billable/specific ICD-10-CM code valid for FY2027 (October 1, 2026 – September 30, 2027).
Can L56.8 be used as a principal diagnosis?
- Yes. The Medicare Code Editor doesn't restrict L56.8 as a principal diagnosis.
Is L56.8 a CC or MCC?
- No. L56.8 is neither a CC nor an MCC under MS-DRG v44.0.