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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD04.8

D04.8

Billable

Carcinoma in situ of skin of other sites

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D04.8 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of carcinoma in situ of skin of other sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Carcinoma in situ (CIS) of the skin refers to a localized form of skin cancer where abnormal cells are present but have not invaded deeper tissues. This condition is characterized by the presence of atypical keratinocytes confined to the epidermis, which is the outermost layer of the skin. The term 'other sites' indicates that the carcinoma is located in areas of the skin not specifically categorized under more common sites like the face, scalp, or trunk. CIS is often asymptomatic and may be discovered incidentally during routine skin examinations. The risk of progression to invasive cancer varies depending on factors such as the specific site, histological subtype, and patient demographics. Regular surveillance is crucial for early detection and management, as untreated CIS can progress to invasive squamous cell carcinoma or basal cell carcinoma. Treatment options typically include surgical excision, cryotherapy, or topical chemotherapy, depending on the lesion's characteristics and patient preferences.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of lesion location and characteristics
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions such as benign neoplasms
  • Need for precise coding based on histological findings
  • Potential for multiple lesions requiring careful coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of lesion characteristics
  • Failure to specify the exact site of the carcinoma
  • Misclassification of lesions as benign or malignant
  • Inconsistent follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of lesion size, location, and histological findings are essential.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis of CIS during routine skin checks, management of multiple lesions, and follow-up after treatment.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate mapping of lesions to the correct ICD-10 code based on site and histology.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans and follow-up notes are necessary to support coding.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of patients with a history of skin cancer, treatment planning for CIS, and monitoring for progression.

Billing Considerations

Coordination with dermatology for accurate coding and treatment documentation.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D04.8 When
  • According to the ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, D04
  • 8 should be used when the carcinoma in situ is confirmed by histological examination and is localized to the skin
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the specific site is clearly indicated

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D04.8 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11600CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a carcinoma in situ lesion.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size, location, and histological findings of the lesion.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists must ensure accurate coding based on the excised 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 carcinoma in situ, improving the ability to track and manage skin cancers. D04.8 provides granularity that aids in understanding the epidemiology and treatment outcomes of CIS in various skin locations.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of carcinoma in situ, improving the ability to track and manage skin cancers. D04.8 provides granularity that aids in understanding the epidemiology and treatment outcomes of CIS in various skin locations.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of carcinoma in situ?

Carcinoma in situ is significant because it represents an early stage of cancer that has not invaded surrounding tissues. Early detection and treatment can prevent progression to invasive cancer.