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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.691

C44.691

Billable

Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.691 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C44.691 refers to a malignant neoplasm of the skin located on the upper limb, including the shoulder, that does not fall into more specific categories of skin cancer. This code encompasses various types of skin malignancies, such as squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma, which may arise due to factors like chronic sun exposure, genetic predisposition, or other environmental influences. The unspecified nature of the upper limb indicates that the exact location is not detailed, which can complicate treatment planning and surgical intervention. Surgical margins are critical in the management of skin cancers, as clear margins are necessary to reduce the risk of recurrence. Reconstruction may be required post-excision, depending on the size and location of the tumor, and the extent of tissue removal. Proper documentation of the type of malignancy, treatment approach, and surgical outcomes is essential for accurate coding and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Unspecified location complicates treatment planning.
  • Variety of potential malignancies under this code.
  • Need for detailed documentation of surgical margins.
  • Reconstruction requirements may vary significantly.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins.
  • Failure to specify the type of malignancy.
  • Lack of clarity on reconstruction procedures.
  • Inconsistent coding of related 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 skin cancers, including Mohs surgery.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of margins and any reconstructive procedures performed.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment history, including chemotherapy or radiation therapy details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced skin cancers requiring multidisciplinary approaches.

Billing Considerations

Document all treatment modalities and patient responses to ensure accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.691 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the malignancy is confirmed and documented
  • Include details about the type of skin cancer and any treatments performed
  • malignant skin conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.691 When
  • Exclude codes for benign neoplasms or non

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11600CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion, face, ears, scalp, neck; excised diameter over 4.0 cm

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a malignant lesion on the upper limb.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion and margins.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and surgical oncology must ensure accurate coding of excised margins.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding skin cancers, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation. C44.691 provides a clear framework for coding unspecified malignant neoplasms of the skin, facilitating improved patient care and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding skin cancers, which aids in better tracking of treatment outcomes and resource allocation. C44.691 provides a clear framework for coding unspecified malignant neoplasms of the skin, facilitating improved patient care and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of skin cancers are included under C44.691?

C44.691 includes various types of malignant skin neoplasms such as squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma that are not specified further in documentation.