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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.32

C44.32

Billable

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of other and unspecified parts of face

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.32 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of skin of other and unspecified parts of face.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common form of skin cancer that arises from the squamous cells in the epidermis. This specific code, C44.32, pertains to SCC located on the skin of other and unspecified parts of the face, which may include areas such as the forehead, cheeks, or around the eyes and mouth. Risk factors for developing SCC include prolonged sun exposure, fair skin, and a history of skin damage or precancerous lesions. The clinical presentation often includes a persistent, non-healing sore, a scaly patch, or a wart-like growth that may bleed or crust. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a biopsy. Treatment options vary based on the size and location of the tumor and may include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, cryotherapy, or topical chemotherapy. Surgical margins are critical in ensuring complete removal of the cancerous tissue, and reconstruction may be necessary depending on the extent of the excision. Follow-up care is essential to monitor for recurrence and manage any complications.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of tumor size and margins
  • Need for precise anatomical location descriptions
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions
  • Potential for multiple lesions requiring separate coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the lesion
  • Misclassification of the type of skin cancer
  • Lack of follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, biopsy results, treatment plans, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of SCC, management of precancerous lesions, and post-operative care.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of margins and reconstruction details.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, including chemotherapy or radiation therapy details if applicable.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced SCC cases and coordination of care with dermatology.

Billing Considerations

Documentation of staging and treatment response is crucial.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.32 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the lesion's location, size, and treatment
  • Include any relevant history of skin cancer or precancerous lesions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.32 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising an SCC from the face.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists should ensure detailed operative notes.

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.

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.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 complete removal of cancerous tissue and to assess the risk of recurrence.