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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD04.22

D04.22

Billable

Carcinoma in situ of skin of left ear and external auricular canal

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D04.22 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of carcinoma in situ of skin of left ear and external auricular canal.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Carcinoma in situ (CIS) of the skin of the left ear and external auricular canal is a non-invasive form of skin cancer characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the epidermis. This condition is often detected during routine skin examinations or when patients present with changes in the skin, such as new lesions or changes in existing moles. CIS is considered an early stage of skin cancer, where the cancerous cells have not invaded deeper tissues. The left ear and external auricular canal are specific sites where this condition can occur, and it is crucial for healthcare providers to monitor these areas closely. Treatment options may include surgical excision, cryotherapy, or topical chemotherapy, depending on the extent and characteristics of the lesion. Regular follow-up and surveillance are essential to prevent progression to invasive carcinoma, as CIS can evolve into more aggressive forms of skin cancer if left untreated.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of the anatomical location (left ear and external auricular canal)
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions and cancers
  • Need for precise documentation of the diagnosis and treatment
  • Potential for progression to invasive cancer requiring careful monitoring

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the diagnosis
  • Failure to document the treatment plan and follow-up
  • Misclassification of the lesion type
  • Lack of clear communication regarding the patient's history of skin lesions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, including size, location, and characteristics, along with treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients presenting with suspicious skin lesions, routine skin checks, and follow-up after treatment.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate staging and documentation of any prior skin cancers or treatments.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive notes on the examination of the external ear and canal, including any findings related to the carcinoma.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Patients with ear complaints, lesions in the auricular canal, or those requiring surgical intervention.

Billing Considerations

Document any surgical procedures performed and the rationale for treatment choices.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D04.22 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the diagnosis is documented clearly and that the code reflects the specific site of the carcinoma
  • Include any relevant history of skin cancer and treatment

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D04.22 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11602CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion, face, ears, scalp

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a carcinoma in situ from the left ear.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion and the margins excised.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists should ensure clear documentation of the lesion's characteristics.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like carcinoma in situ, 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 conditions like carcinoma in situ, 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 carcinoma in situ?

Carcinoma in situ is a non-invasive form of cancer where abnormal cells are present but have not spread to surrounding tissues. It is often considered an early stage of cancer.

How is carcinoma in situ treated?

Treatment options include surgical excision, cryotherapy, and topical chemotherapy, depending on the lesion's characteristics and location.

What are the risks of carcinoma in situ?

If left untreated, carcinoma in situ can progress to invasive cancer, which may require more extensive treatment and have a higher risk of metastasis.