Find information on skin cancer screening, including clinical documentation, medical coding, and healthcare resources. Learn about melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, biopsy procedures, dermatoscopy, and Mohs surgery. This resource provides details on ICD-10 codes, CPT codes, and best practices for documenting skin cancer diagnoses and treatment in electronic health records. Discover the latest advances in AI-driven diagnostics and early detection methods for skin cancer.
Also known as
Encounter for screening for oth. malignant neoplasms
Screening exam for specified malignant neoplasms, excluding breast and cervix.
Malignant neoplasm of skin
Includes melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers for confirmed diagnoses.
In situ neoplasms of skin
Abnormal skin cell growth confined to the epidermis; a precancerous state.
Encounter for examination of skin lesion
Examination of a skin lesion, not necessarily for cancer screening.
Follow this step-by-step guide to choose the correct ICD-10 code.
Is the screening for malignant neoplasm of skin?
Yes
Personal history of skin cancer?
No
Is it for other skin condition screening?
When to use each related code
Description |
---|
Skin cancer screening |
Actinic keratosis |
Atypical nevus |
Using unspecified skin cancer codes (e.g., C44.9) when more specific documentation supports melanoma or BCC/SCC diagnoses, impacting reimbursement and data accuracy. Relevant to ICD-10 coding, CDI, and HCC risk adjustment.
Failing to code associated biopsy or excision procedures performed during skin cancer screenings, leading to underpayment. Key for procedural coding (CPT), medical billing compliance, and revenue cycle management.
Inconsistent coding of E/M level with the complexity of the skin cancer screening performed, inviting audits and potential penalties. Important for E/M coding, healthcare compliance, and audit risk management.
Patient presented for skin cancer screening due to family history of melanoma and personal concern regarding changing mole. Patient reports no current skin concerns such as itching, bleeding, or pain. Past medical history includes hypertension and hyperlipidemia. Medications include lisinopril and atorvastatin. Allergies include penicillin. Physical examination reveals multiple benign nevi. A suspicious lesion on the patient's back, measuring approximately 6mm in diameter, irregular borders, and variegated color, was identified. Dermoscopic evaluation revealed atypical features concerning for melanoma. Clinical diagnosis of suspicious pigmented lesion concerning for malignant melanoma. Differential diagnoses include atypical nevus, basal cell carcinoma, seborrheic keratosis. Plan includes full-thickness excisional biopsy of the lesion for histopathologic evaluation. Patient education provided regarding sun protection, skin self-examination, and follow-up care. ICD-10 code Z12.83 (Encounter for screening for malignant neoplasm of skin) and CPT code 99204 (Office or other outpatient visit for the evaluation and management of a new patient) were billed. Follow-up appointment scheduled in two weeks to discuss biopsy results and treatment options, including potential surgical excision, Mohs surgery, or sentinel lymph node biopsy depending on pathology. Patient understands and agrees with the plan.