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ICD-10 Coding for Sebaceous Cyst(L72.3)

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

Also known as:

Epidermoid CystKeratinous CystWen

Related ICD-10 Code Ranges

Complete code families applicable to Sebaceous Cyst

L72-L72.9Primary Range

Follicular cysts of skin and subcutaneous tissue

This range includes various types of skin cysts, with L72.3 specifically for sebaceous cysts.

Key Information: ICD-10 code for sebaceous cyst

Essential facts and insights about Sebaceous Cyst

The ICD-10 code for a sebaceous cyst is L72.3, used for non-infected cysts. Infected cysts require additional coding.

Primary ICD-10-CM Code for sebaceous cyst

Sebaceous cyst
Billable Code

Decision Criteria

clinical Criteria

  • Presence of a central punctum and cheese-like material

documentation Criteria

  • Detailed location and size of the cyst

Applicable To

  • Epidermoid cyst
  • Keratinous cyst
  • Wen

Excludes

Clinical Validation Requirements

  • Presence of a central punctum
  • Cheese-like material expressed
  • Mobile, subcutaneous nodule

Code-Specific Risks

  • Confusing with epidermoid or pilar cysts
  • Not documenting infection when present

Coding Notes

  • Ensure documentation specifies 'sebaceous cyst' rather than just 'cyst'.

Ancillary Codes

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

Bacterial and viral infectious agents

B95-B97
Use to specify the infectious agent if the cyst is infected.

Differential Codes

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

Pilar cyst

L72.11
No central punctum, often found on the scalp.

Trichilemmal cyst

L72.12
Similar to pilar cyst, often found on the scalp.

Documentation & Coding Risks

Avoid these common documentation and coding issues when documenting Sebaceous Cyst to ensure proper reimbursement, maintain compliance, and reduce audit risk. These guidelines are particularly important when using ICD-10 code L72.3.

Impact

Clinical: May lead to incorrect treatment decisions., Regulatory: Non-compliance with specificity requirements., Financial: Potential for claim denials due to non-specific coding.

Mitigation Strategy

Ensure documentation specifies 'sebaceous cyst'., Educate providers on the importance of specificity.

Impact

Reimbursement: May lead to incorrect DRG assignment and reduced reimbursement., Compliance: Non-compliance with coding guidelines., Data Quality: Inaccurate clinical data representation.

Mitigation Strategy

Add L02.x for the infection and sequence it first.

Impact

Failure to code infections separately can lead to audit findings.

Mitigation Strategy

Train coders to always check for and code infections separately.

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

Documentation Templates for Sebaceous Cyst

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

Sebaceous cyst excision

Specialty: Dermatology

Required Elements

  • Patient history
  • Physical examination findings
  • Procedure details
  • Post-procedure care

Example Documentation

**Subjective**: Patient reports a painless nodule on the back for 6 months. **Objective**: 2 cm mobile, subcutaneous nodule with central punctum. **Assessment**: Sebaceous cyst. **Plan**: Excision with 2 mm margins.

Examples: Poor vs. Good Documentation

Poor Documentation Example
Cyst excised from back.
Good Documentation Example
2 cm sebaceous cyst excised from upper back with 2 mm margins; capsule removed intact.
Explanation
The good example provides specific details about the size, location, and procedure, which are necessary for accurate coding and billing.

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

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