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ICD-10 Coding for Nevus(D22.x, I78.1, Q82.5)

Complete ICD-10-CM coding and documentation guide for Nevus. Includes clinical validation requirements, documentation requirements, and coding pitfalls.

Also known as:

MoleBirthmarkMelanocytic NevusVascular Nevus

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Nevus

D22Primary Range

Melanocytic nevi

This range covers benign melanocytic neoplasms, commonly known as moles.

Non-neoplastic vascular nevi

This range includes vascular nevi such as spider nevi, which are non-neoplastic.

Congenital non-neoplastic nevus

This range is used for congenital nevi present at birth.

Code Comparison: When to Use Each Code

Compare key differences between these codes to ensure accurate selection

CodeDescriptionWhen to UseKey Documentation
D22.xMelanocytic neviUse for benign melanocytic nevi confirmed by histology.
  • Histological confirmation of benign melanocytic neoplasm
I78.1Non-neoplastic vascular neviUse for vascular nevi such as spider nevus.
  • Clinical diagnosis of vascular nevus
Q82.5Congenital non-neoplastic nevusUse for congenital nevi documented at birth.
  • Documented presence at birth

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 melanocytic nevus

Essential facts and insights about Nevus

The ICD-10 code for a melanocytic nevus is D22.x, used for benign melanocytic neoplasms confirmed by histology.

Primary ICD-10-CM Codes for nevus

Melanocytic nevi
Non-billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Histological confirmation of benign melanocytic neoplasm

coding Criteria

  • Excludes congenital and vascular nevi

Applicable To

  • Benign melanocytic neoplasms

Excludes

  • Congenital non-neoplastic nevi (Q82.5)
  • Vascular nevi (I78.1)

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Histological confirmation of benign melanocytic neoplasm

Code-Specific Risks

  • Misclassification as non-neoplastic or congenital

Coding Notes

  • Ensure histological confirmation to avoid misclassification.

Ancillary Codes

Additional codes that should be used in conjunction with the main diagnosis codes when applicable.

Encounter for dermatological exam

Z01.2
Use for surveillance of multiple nevi.

Differential Codes

Alternative codes to consider when ruling out similar conditions to the primary diagnosis.

Non-neoplastic vascular nevi

I78.1
Use for vascular lesions like spider nevi, not melanocytic.

Congenital non-neoplastic nevus

Q82.5
Use for nevi present at birth, not acquired.

Melanocytic nevi

D22.x
Use for melanocytic lesions, not vascular.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Nevus to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code D22.x.

Impact

Clinical: Ambiguity in treatment location, Regulatory: Non-compliance with documentation standards, Financial: Potential claim denials

Mitigation Strategy

Always document laterality, Use templates with required fields

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect coding may lead to denied claims., Compliance: Non-compliance with ICD-10 guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data recording.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure histological confirmation for melanocytic nevi.

Impact

Reimbursement: Incorrect DRG assignment for newborn claims., Compliance: Potential audit issues., Data Quality: Misleading patient history.

Mitigation Strategy

Verify congenital status through birth records.

Impact

Misclassification between melanocytic and vascular nevi

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure histological confirmation and accurate documentation.

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 Nevus, with expert answers to help guide accurate code selection and documentation.

Documentation Templates for Nevus

Use these documentation templates to ensure complete and accurate documentation for Nevus. These templates include all required elements for proper coding and billing.

Excision of melanocytic nevus

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • Type of nevus
  • Location and laterality
  • Size and morphology
  • Pathology confirmation

Example Documentation

5mm compound melanocytic nevus, right forearm, excised with 2mm margins.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Nevus excised from arm.
Good Documentation Example
5mm compound melanocytic nevus, right forearm, asymmetric with variegated pigmentation, excised with 2mm margins.
Explanation
The good example specifies type, location, size, and morphology, which are essential for accurate coding.

Need help with ICD-10 coding for Nevus? Ask your questions below.

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