Sunburn of third degree

This code signifies a severe burn to the skin caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, characterized by full-thickness tissue damage. It involves destruction of the epidermis and dermis, often extending into subcutaneous tissue, and may present with blistering, charring, numbness, and potential for scarring.

Apply this code when documentation clearly indicates a third-degree sunburn, meaning the burn has penetrated all layers of the skin. This typically involves a physician's assessment noting full-thickness damage, often requiring specialized burn care.

• Ensure documentation explicitly states "third-degree" or describes full-thickness skin damage due to sun exposure.
• Distinguish carefully from second-degree sunburns (blistering, partial-thickness) which are coded differently.
• Code any associated complications, such as infection or dehydration, separately.