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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.622

C44.622

Billable

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of right upper limb, including shoulder

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.622 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of skin of right upper limb, including shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common form of skin cancer that arises from the squamous cells in the epidermis. This malignancy is often associated with prolonged sun exposure, which leads to DNA damage in skin cells. The right upper limb, including the shoulder, is a frequent site for SCC due to its exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Clinically, SCC may present as a persistent sore, a scaly patch, or a wart-like growth that can bleed or crust over. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a biopsy, which reveals atypical squamous cells. Treatment options include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, and in some cases, radiation therapy or topical chemotherapy. Surgical margins are critical in SCC management; clear margins are essential to reduce the risk of recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary depending on the size and location of the excised lesion, with options ranging from primary closure to skin grafts or flaps. Regular follow-up is important for monitoring potential recurrence and managing any new lesions, especially in patients with a history of skin cancer.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Need for precise documentation of tumor location and size
  • Requirement for clear surgical margin assessment
  • 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 depth of the tumor
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for recurrence monitoring
  • Improper coding of reconstruction procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of SCC, follow-up for skin cancer patients, and management of skin lesions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate recording of the lesion's characteristics and treatment outcomes.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced SCC, coordination of care with surgical teams, and monitoring for metastasis.

Billing Considerations

Document any systemic treatments and their effects on the patient's overall health.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.622 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for neoplasms, ensuring accurate documentation of the site, laterality, and type of skin cancer
  • Include details about the treatment and any associated procedures

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.622 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11406CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion, face, ears, scalp, neck

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising SCC from the right upper limb.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion and margins.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology should ensure accurate coding based on the excised area.

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. C44.622 provides detailed information about the location and type of cancer, which is crucial for treatment planning and epidemiological studies.

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. C44.622 provides detailed information about the location and type of cancer, which is crucial for treatment planning and epidemiological studies.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.622 provides detailed information about the location and type of cancer, which is crucial for treatment planning and epidemiological studies.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of clear surgical margins in SCC?

Clear surgical margins indicate that the cancer has been completely removed, reducing the risk of recurrence. Documentation of margins is essential for accurate coding and treatment planning.