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 CodesC44.13

C44.13

Billable

Sebaceous cell carcinoma of skin of eyelid, including canthus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.13 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sebaceous cell carcinoma of skin of eyelid, including canthus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Sebaceous cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that arises from sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair. This type of carcinoma typically occurs on the eyelid, including the canthus, which is the corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet. Patients may present with a nodular lesion that can be mistaken for a benign growth, leading to delayed diagnosis. Risk factors include chronic sun exposure, which can damage the skin and increase the likelihood of malignant transformations. Surgical excision is the primary treatment, and it is crucial to achieve clear surgical margins to prevent recurrence. Reconstruction of the eyelid may be necessary post-excision to restore function and aesthetics, given the delicate nature of the eyelid structure. Regular follow-up is essential due to the potential for metastasis and recurrence, particularly in cases where the carcinoma is diagnosed at a later stage.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between benign and malignant lesions
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins
  • Reconstruction procedures may complicate coding
  • Potential for metastasis requiring additional codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to document the type of reconstruction performed
  • Misclassification of the tumor type
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for recurrence

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, surgical approach, and reconstruction methods.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of eyelid tumors, including excision and reconstruction.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of margins and any complications during surgery.

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive skin examination findings and biopsy results.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, including Mohs micrographic surgery.

Billing Considerations

Document the histological type and grade of the carcinoma.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.13 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, treatment, and any associated conditions
  • Include specific details about the surgical procedure and margins

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.13 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used for excision of sebaceous cell carcinoma on the eyelid.

Documentation Requirements

Document size, location, and margins of the excised lesion.

Specialty Considerations

Ophthalmology may require additional documentation for eyelid reconstruction.

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, including sebaceous cell carcinoma, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, including sebaceous cell carcinoma, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, including sebaceous cell carcinoma, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track treatment outcomes and resource utilization.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    American Academy of Ophthalmology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    American Academy of Ophthalmology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary treatment for sebaceous cell carcinoma?

The primary treatment is surgical excision with clear margins, and reconstruction may be necessary depending on the extent of the excision.

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

Diagnosis is typically confirmed through biopsy, and clinical examination may reveal a firm, nodular lesion that is often mistaken for benign growths.