Learn about Dermatofibroma (benign fibrous histiocytoma) diagnosis, including clinical documentation, ICD-10 coding (D23.9), and healthcare management. Find information on fibrous dermatofibroma symptoms, treatment, and pathology to improve your medical coding and clinical understanding. This resource offers valuable insights for healthcare professionals seeking accurate Dermatofibroma information.
Also known as
Benign skin neoplasm, unspecified
Catch-all code for benign skin growths not otherwise specified.
Benign neoplasms of skin
Encompasses various non-cancerous skin growths like moles and cysts.
Non-neoplastic skin disorders
Covers skin conditions not related to tumors or cancers.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the diagnosis Dermatofibroma/Histiocytoma?
Yes
Is it multiple?
No
Do not code as Dermatofibroma. Review clinical documentation for correct diagnosis.
When to use each related code
| Description |
|---|
| Common, benign skin growth, firm, brown-red nodule. |
| Rare, benign vascular tumor, bluish, often painful. |
| Rare, reactive skin lesion, firm, red-brown papule or nodule. |
Missing or unspecified anatomical site can lead to coding errors and claim denials. Proper documentation of location is crucial for accurate ICD-10-CM coding (e.g., C44.x).
Dermatofibroma may be clinically similar to other skin conditions. Accurate diagnosis confirmation is vital to avoid incorrect coding of ruled-out diagnoses.
Coding a history of dermatofibroma (Z85.820) requires clear documentation confirming past diagnosis, not just prior excision. Accurate history coding is essential for proper risk adjustment.
Q: How can I differentiate a dermatofibroma from a melanoma or other pigmented skin lesions during a clinical exam?
A: Differentiating a dermatofibroma from melanoma or other pigmented lesions requires careful clinical evaluation. Dermatofibromas typically present as firm, dome-shaped, reddish-brown to pink papules or nodules, often with a dimple sign upon lateral compression. A dermatoscope can be helpful, revealing a characteristic central white or yellow area surrounded by a peripheral pigmented network (pigment network sign). Unlike melanoma, dermatofibromas usually lack irregular borders, asymmetry, color variation, or rapid growth. However, if any doubt exists, particularly with pigmented lesions, a biopsy is warranted for definitive diagnosis. Explore how dermoscopy features can aid in distinguishing benign from malignant skin tumors.
Q: What are the recommended treatment options for dermatofibroma, and when is surgical excision indicated for these benign skin lesions?
A: Most dermatofibromas are asymptomatic and require no treatment. Patient education about the benign nature of the lesion is often sufficient. For symptomatic lesions causing pain, itching, or cosmetic concern, several treatment options exist. Cryosurgery can flatten the lesion, but may cause hypopigmentation. Intralesional corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and size. Surgical excision, though effective, can lead to scarring and is generally reserved for cases where malignancy is suspected, diagnosis is uncertain, or the lesion is causing significant symptoms. Consider implementing a shared decision-making approach to determine the best management strategy for each individual patient. Learn more about the long-term outcomes of different treatment modalities for dermatofibroma.
Patient presents with a dermatofibroma, also known as a benign fibrous histiocytoma or fibrous dermatofibroma. The lesion is a solitary, firm, hyperpigmented papule located on the [location, e.g., anterior aspect of the right thigh]. It measures [size in millimeters] and exhibits a dimpling or button-like depression upon lateral compression (dimple sign). The patient reports the lesion has been present for [duration] and denies any associated pain, pruritus, or bleeding. The lesion's color is [color, e.g., reddish-brown] and the texture is smooth. No surrounding erythema, edema, or lymphadenopathy is noted. Differential diagnosis includes dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, keloid, nevus, and epidermal inclusion cyst. Given the clinical presentation and characteristic dimple sign, the diagnosis of dermatofibroma is favored. No treatment is indicated at this time as the lesion is asymptomatic and benign. Patient education was provided regarding the benign nature of the lesion and observation was recommended. Follow-up is advised if changes in size, color, or symptoms occur. ICD-10 code D23.9 (Benign neoplasm of skin of unspecified site) is appropriate for billing and coding purposes. SNOMED CT concept 76512006 (Dermatofibroma) can be used for electronic health record documentation.