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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD04.121

D04.121

Billable

Carcinoma in situ of skin of left upper eyelid, including canthus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D04.121 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of carcinoma in situ of skin of left upper eyelid, including canthus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Carcinoma in situ (CIS) of the skin is a non-invasive form of skin cancer characterized by the presence of abnormal cells confined to the epidermis. In the case of D04.121, the carcinoma is specifically located on the left upper eyelid, including the canthus, which is the corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet. This condition is often asymptomatic in its early stages but can present as a persistent lesion, ulcer, or change in skin color. Risk factors include excessive sun exposure, fair skin, and a history of skin cancer. Surveillance protocols typically involve regular dermatological examinations to monitor for changes in the lesion's appearance or size. The risk of progression to invasive carcinoma is present, particularly if left untreated, necessitating timely intervention. Treatment options may include surgical excision, cryotherapy, or topical chemotherapy, depending on the lesion's characteristics and patient factors.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of location (left upper eyelid, including canthus)
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions
  • Need for precise documentation of lesion characteristics
  • Potential for progression to invasive carcinoma

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of lesion characteristics
  • Failure to document surveillance and follow-up plans
  • Misclassification of the lesion type
  • Inconsistent coding of treatment procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, including size, color, and texture, as well as treatment plans and follow-up.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of skin lesions, including biopsies and excisions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of the lesion's location and characteristics to support the diagnosis.

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of ocular examination findings, including any impact on vision or eyelid function.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of eyelid lesions and their potential impact on ocular health.

Billing Considerations

Collaboration with dermatology for comprehensive care and accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D04.121 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is supported by clinical documentation
  • Include details about the lesion's characteristics and treatment history

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D04.121 When
  • Exclude codes for invasive skin cancers unless there is clear documentation of progression

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11400CPT Code

Excision, benign lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a carcinoma in situ lesion.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size and location of the lesion, as well as the excision details.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and ophthalmology may both be involved in the excision.

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, including carcinoma in situ. This has improved the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for greater specificity in coding skin cancers, including carcinoma in situ. This has improved 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 coding D04.121 accurately?

Accurate coding of D04.121 is crucial for appropriate treatment planning, reimbursement, and tracking of skin cancer incidence. It ensures that patients receive the necessary follow-up care and interventions.