ICD-10 Coding for Basal Cell Skin Cancer(C44.311, C44.22)
Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Basal Cell Skin Cancer. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.
Also known as:
Related ICD-10 Code Ranges
Complete code families applicable to Basal Cell Skin Cancer
C44.00-C44.99Primary Range
Malignant neoplasm of skin
This range includes site-specific codes for basal cell carcinoma based on anatomical location and laterality.
Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code
Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection
| Code | Description | When to Use | Key Documentation |
|---|---|---|---|
| C44.311 | Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose | Use when basal cell carcinoma is confirmed on the skin of the nose. |
|
| C44.22 | Basal cell carcinoma of skin of ear and external auditory canal | Use when basal cell carcinoma is confirmed on the skin of the ear. |
|
Clinical Decision Support
Always review the patient's clinical documentation thoroughly. When in doubt, choose the more specific code and ensure documentation supports it.
Key Information: ICD-10 code for basal cell skin cancer on nose
Essential facts and insights about Basal Cell Skin Cancer
Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for basal cell skin cancer
Decision Criteria
clinical Criteria
- Biopsy confirms basal cell carcinoma on the nose.
Applicable To
- Basal cell carcinoma of nose
Excludes
- Squamous cell carcinoma of nose
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy confirmation of basal cell carcinoma
- Documentation of lesion on the nose
Code-Specific Risks
- Incorrect site documentation leading to miscoding
Coding Notes
- Ensure documentation specifies the exact location on the nose.
C44.22 - Basal cell carcinoma of skin of ear and external auditory canal
Use when basal cell carcinoma is confirmed on the skin of the ear.
Applicable To
- Basal cell carcinoma of ear
Excludes
- Squamous cell carcinoma of ear
Clinical Validation Requirements
- Biopsy confirmation of basal cell carcinoma
- Documentation of lesion on the ear
Coding Notes
Ensure documentation specifies the exact location on the ear.
Ancillary Codes
Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.
Mohs micrographic surgery, first stage
17311Documentation & Coding Risks
Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Basal Cell Skin Cancer to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code C44.311.
Impact
Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment planning., Regulatory: Increases risk of non-compliance with coding standards., Financial: Potential for claim denials.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document right or left for lesions on paired organs., Use templates that prompt for laterality.
Impact
Reimbursement: May lead to lower reimbursement rates., Compliance: Increases risk of audit due to lack of specificity., Data Quality: Reduces accuracy of clinical data.
Mitigation Strategy
Always document and code the specific anatomical site of the basal cell carcinoma.
Impact
Frequent use of unspecified codes can trigger audits.
Mitigation Strategy
Document specific site and laterality to use specific codes.
Documentation errors, coding pitfalls, and audit risks are interconnected aspects of medical coding and billing. Addressing all three areas helps ensure accurate coding, optimal reimbursement, and regulatory compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about ICD-10 coding for Basal Cell Skin Cancer, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.
Documentation Templates for Basal Cell Skin Cancer
Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Basal Cell Skin Cancer. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.
Basal Cell Carcinoma on the Nose
Specialty: DermatologyRequired Elements
- Exact location
- Size of lesion
- Biopsy results
- Treatment plan
Example Documentation
Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation
Poor Documentation Example
Good Documentation Example
Explanation
Need help with ICD-10 coding for Basal Cell Skin Cancer? Ask your questions below.