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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.311

C44.311

Billable

Basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.311 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma of skin of nose.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common form of skin cancer, primarily arising from the basal cells in the epidermis. This type of cancer is typically associated with prolonged sun exposure, making it prevalent in individuals with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or those who frequently engage in outdoor activities without adequate sun protection. BCC of the skin of the nose is particularly concerning due to the cosmetic and functional implications of the tumor's location. 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 depending on the size and depth of the excised lesion, especially in cosmetically sensitive areas like the nose. The prognosis for BCC is generally favorable, but careful monitoring and follow-up are essential to detect any new lesions or recurrences.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise documentation of tumor size and margins
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions
  • Potential for reconstruction procedures post-excision
  • Variability in treatment approaches based on tumor characteristics

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to document the size and location of the lesion
  • Lack of follow-up notes on recurrence or new lesions
  • Improper coding of reconstruction procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, including size, location, and histological findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of any reconstruction procedures performed after excision.

Plastic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive notes on reconstructive techniques used and the rationale for surgical decisions.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Reconstruction following excision of BCC, especially on the nose.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of tissue loss and the method of reconstruction to support coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.311 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, treatment, and any associated conditions
  • Include details on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the surgical approach taken

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.311 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 nose with reconstruction.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion and the surgical margins.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and plastic surgery may collaborate on these cases.

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. C44.311 provides a clear distinction for basal cell carcinoma of the nose, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

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. C44.311 provides a clear distinction for basal cell carcinoma of the nose, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.311 provides a clear distinction for basal cell carcinoma of the nose, facilitating better tracking of treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary treatment for basal cell carcinoma?

The primary treatment for basal cell carcinoma is surgical excision, often using Mohs micrographic surgery for lesions in cosmetically sensitive areas like the nose.