Exposure to sunlight, initial encounter

This code signifies an adverse event resulting from exposure to natural sunlight. It is used when the patient presents for the initial treatment of conditions directly caused by or exacerbated by solar radiation, such as sunburn, heatstroke, or other phototoxic reactions.

Apply this code when documenting the first encounter for a patient suffering from a condition directly attributable to sun exposure. This includes cases where a patient presents to an emergency department or physician's office for treatment of acute sunburn or other immediate effects of excessive sun.

• Always assign an additional code for the specific condition resulting from the sun exposure (e.g., L55.- for sunburn).
• This "initial encounter" seventh character is used as long as the patient is receiving active treatment for the condition.
• Do not use this code for routine sun exposure without an adverse effect, or for conditions like skin cancer that develop over time from chronic exposure.