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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.129

C44.129

Billable

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of left eyelid, including canthus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.129 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of skin of left eyelid, including canthus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is a malignant tumor arising from keratinocytes, the predominant cell type in the epidermis. When located on the left eyelid, including the canthus, it poses unique challenges due to the delicate nature of the eyelid and the potential for functional and cosmetic impairment. SCC is often associated with chronic sun exposure, particularly in fair-skinned individuals, and can present as a persistent, non-healing ulcer, a scaly patch, or a firm nodule. Diagnosis typically involves a biopsy, and treatment options may include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, or topical chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's size, depth, and location. Surgical margins are critical in ensuring complete removal of the cancerous tissue, and reconstruction may be necessary to restore eyelid function and appearance. Given the anatomical complexity of the eyelid, reconstructive techniques may involve local flaps or grafts to achieve optimal cosmetic outcomes while preserving eyelid function.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Anatomical specificity of the eyelid and canthus
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins
  • Potential for reconstruction procedures post-excision
  • Variability in presentation and treatment options

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to specify the location accurately
  • Misclassification of the tumor type
  • Lack of documentation for reconstructive procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed clinical notes including lesion size, location, and treatment plan.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of margins and any reconstructive procedures performed.

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of functional impairment and cosmetic concerns related to eyelid lesions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of eyelid tumors and reconstruction post-excision.

Billing Considerations

Collaboration with dermatology for accurate coding of skin cancers affecting the eyelid.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.129 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM guidelines for coding neoplasms, ensuring accurate documentation of the site, type, and behavior of the tumor
  • Include details on surgical margins and any reconstructive procedures performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.129 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 the eyelid with reconstruction.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion, margins, and reconstruction details.

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 more specific coding of skin cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.129 provides detailed information about the location and type of cancer, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

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. C44.129 provides detailed information about the location and type of cancer, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.129 provides detailed information about the location and type of cancer, which is crucial for treatment planning and outcomes tracking.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of specifying the eyelid location in coding?

Specifying the eyelid location is crucial for accurate coding, as it impacts treatment options, surgical approaches, and potential complications.