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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.12

C44.12

Billable

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of eyelid, including canthus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.12 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of skin of eyelid, including canthus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin of the eyelid, including the canthus, is a malignant neoplasm that arises from the squamous cells of the epidermis. This type of skin cancer is often associated with prolonged sun exposure, particularly in fair-skinned individuals. The eyelid is a common site for skin cancers due to its exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. SCC can present as a persistent, non-healing sore, a scaly patch, or a raised growth that may bleed or crust. Diagnosis typically involves a biopsy to confirm the presence of malignant cells. Treatment options may include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, or radiation therapy, depending on the tumor's size, location, and depth of invasion. Surgical margins are critical in ensuring complete removal of the cancerous tissue, and reconstruction may be necessary to restore the eyelid's appearance and function post-excision. Given the delicate nature of eyelid anatomy, careful planning and execution of reconstructive techniques are essential to minimize functional impairment and cosmetic defects.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise documentation of tumor size and location
  • Variability in surgical techniques and reconstruction methods
  • Potential for multiple procedures related to excision and reconstruction
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions and cancers

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to document the specific location of the carcinoma
  • Misclassification of the tumor type or stage
  • Lack of clarity in pathology reports

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, biopsy results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, including SCC and basal cell carcinoma.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of margins and reconstruction techniques.

Oculoplastic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive surgical notes detailing excision and reconstruction methods.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Reconstruction of eyelid defects post-excision of skin cancers.

Billing Considerations

Focus on functional outcomes and aesthetic results in documentation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.12 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, treatment, and any related procedures
  • Include specific details about the tumor's location and characteristics to support the use of C44

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.12 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Mohs micrographic surgery

Clinical Scenario

Used for excision of SCC on eyelid with reconstruction.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative report including margins and reconstruction.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure documentation reflects the complexity of eyelid anatomy.

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. C44.12 provides granularity in coding that was not available in ICD-9.

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. C44.12 provides granularity in coding that was not available in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.12 provides granularity in coding that was not available in ICD-9.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary treatment for C44.12?

The primary treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the eyelid is surgical excision, often followed by reconstruction to restore eyelid function and appearance.