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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.92

C44.92

Billable

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.92 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of skin, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is a malignant tumor that arises from the squamous cells, which are flat cells located in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). This type of skin cancer is often associated with prolonged sun exposure, particularly in fair-skinned individuals, and can occur in areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, ears, neck, and hands. The condition may present as a persistent sore, a red patch, or a wart-like growth that may bleed or crust over. Diagnosis typically involves a biopsy to confirm the presence of malignant cells. Treatment options vary based on the size, location, and depth 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. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment reimbursement and tracking of cancer incidence.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and location of SCC
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions
  • Potential for multiple treatment modalities

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor size and margins
  • Failure to specify the location of the carcinoma
  • Misclassification of benign lesions as malignant
  • Inconsistent treatment documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of lesions, biopsy results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of SCC, follow-up care, and management of surgical complications.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of margins and any reconstructive procedures performed.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, staging information, and follow-up care documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced SCC, chemotherapy administration, and monitoring for recurrence.

Billing Considerations

Accurate staging and documentation of treatment response are crucial for coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.92 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for neoplasms, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, treatment, and any related conditions
  • Include specific details about the tumor's location and characteristics

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.92 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11600CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used for excising SCC from the skin.

Documentation Requirements

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

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists should ensure clear documentation of the surgical procedure.

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 data accuracy and treatment tracking. C44.92 provides a broad category for unspecified SCC, which may lead to more generalized treatment plans.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C44.92 provides a broad category for unspecified SCC, which may lead to more generalized treatment plans.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving data accuracy and treatment tracking. C44.92 provides a broad category for unspecified SCC, which may lead to more generalized treatment plans.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of specifying the location of SCC?

Specifying the location of SCC is crucial for accurate coding, treatment planning, and understanding the potential for recurrence or metastasis.