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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.1121

C44.1121

Billable

Basal cell carcinoma of skin of right upper eyelid, including canthus

BILLABLE STATUSYes
IMPLEMENTATION DATEOctober 1, 2015
LAST UPDATED09/05/2025

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.1121 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma of skin of right upper eyelid, including canthus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, arising from the basal cells in the epidermis. This specific code, C44.1121, refers to BCC located on the skin of the right upper eyelid, including the canthus, which is the corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet. BCC is typically associated with prolonged sun exposure, leading to mutations in the DNA of skin cells. Clinically, BCC may present as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat scar-like lesion, or a bleeding sore that does not heal. Given its location, BCC on the eyelid can pose significant risks to vision and eyelid function, necessitating careful surgical intervention. Surgical margins are critical in the treatment of BCC to ensure complete excision and minimize recurrence. Reconstruction may be required post-excision to restore the eyelid's appearance and function, often involving delicate techniques to maintain aesthetic and functional integrity. Regular follow-up is essential due to the potential for new lesions, particularly in patients with a history of skin cancer.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of location (right upper eyelid, including canthus)
  • Need for accurate documentation of surgical margins
  • Potential for reconstruction procedures post-excision
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to document the specific location of the carcinoma
  • Lack of follow-up care documentation
  • Misclassification of the type of skin cancer

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on lesion characteristics, size, and location; surgical notes including margins and reconstruction details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of BCC, Mohs micrographic surgery, follow-up for skin cancer surveillance.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of the surgical approach and any complications or additional procedures performed.

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of visual function, eyelid anatomy, and any impact on ocular health.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of eyelid tumors, reconstruction after excision, monitoring for recurrence.

Billing Considerations

Collaboration with dermatology for comprehensive care and accurate coding of procedures.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.1121 When
  • Follow ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding neoplasms, ensuring specificity in location and type
  • Include documentation of the surgical procedure and any follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.1121 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Mohs micrographic surgery

Clinical Scenario

Used for excision of BCC on the right upper eyelid.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion, surgical margins, and any reconstruction performed.

Specialty Considerations

Collaboration between dermatology and ophthalmology for optimal outcomes.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding skin cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding skin cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    National Cancer Institute - Skin Cancer

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    National Cancer Institute - Skin Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary treatment for basal cell carcinoma?

The primary treatment for basal cell carcinoma is surgical excision, which may include Mohs micrographic surgery for lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas like the eyelids.

How can I differentiate basal cell carcinoma from other skin lesions?

Basal cell carcinoma typically presents as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat scar-like lesion, or a sore that does not heal. A biopsy is necessary for definitive diagnosis.