ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.1122

C44.1122

Billable

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

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.1122 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma of skin of right lower 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, C44.1122, refers to BCC located on the skin of the right lower 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, making it prevalent in individuals with fair skin or those who have had significant UV exposure. Clinically, BCC may present as a pearly or waxy bump, a flat, flesh-colored lesion, or a scar-like area. Surgical excision is the primary treatment modality, with the goal of achieving clear surgical margins to minimize recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary post-excision, especially in cosmetically sensitive areas like the eyelids, to restore function and appearance. The prognosis for BCC is generally favorable, but careful monitoring is essential due to the potential for local invasion and recurrence.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of the location (right lower eyelid, including canthus)
  • Need for clear documentation of surgical margins
  • Potential for reconstruction procedures post-excision
  • Differentiation from other skin cancers

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the carcinoma
  • Lack of clarity on the type of reconstruction performed
  • Misclassification of the tumor type

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes on the size, location, and characteristics of the lesion, as well as treatment plans and outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of BCC, Mohs micrographic surgery, and post-operative care.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of surgical margins and any reconstructive procedures performed.

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of eyelid tumors, surgical excision, and reconstruction of eyelid defects.

Billing Considerations

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

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.1122 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, location, and any associated procedures
  • Include details on surgical margins and reconstruction when applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.1122 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Mohs micrographic surgery, face, ears, scalp

Clinical Scenario

Used for excision of BCC on the right lower eyelid.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and ophthalmology must coordinate for optimal patient outcomes.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.1122 provides detailed information about the location and type of carcinoma, which is crucial for treatment planning and follow-up.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.1122 provides detailed information about the location and type of carcinoma, which is crucial for treatment planning and follow-up.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.1122 provides detailed information about the location and type of carcinoma, which is crucial for treatment planning and follow-up.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of documenting surgical margins?

Documenting surgical margins is crucial to ensure that the cancer has been completely excised, reducing the risk of recurrence and supporting the medical necessity of the procedure.