ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD 10 CodesDiagnoses
ICD-10 Logo
ICDxICD-10 Medical Coding

Comprehensive ICD-10-CM code reference with AI-powered search capabilities.

© 2025 ICD Code Compass. All rights reserved.

Browse

  • All Chapters
  • All Categories
  • Diagnoses

Tools

  • AI Code Search
ICD-10-CM codes are maintained by the CDC and CMS. This tool is for reference purposes only.
v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD17.9

D17.9

Billable

Benign lipomatous neoplasm, unspecified

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D17.9 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of benign lipomatous neoplasm, unspecified.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Benign lipomatous neoplasms are tumors composed of adipose (fat) tissue that are typically non-cancerous. These neoplasms can occur in various locations throughout the body, including subcutaneous tissues, muscles, and internal organs. While they are generally asymptomatic and do not pose a significant health risk, they can sometimes cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns depending on their size and location. The term 'unspecified' indicates that the specific type or location of the lipomatous neoplasm has not been documented. Surveillance for these neoplasms is usually minimal unless there are changes in size or symptoms, as they have a low potential for malignant transformation. However, it is essential for healthcare providers to monitor any changes in the neoplasm's characteristics, as atypical presentations may warrant further investigation to rule out malignancy. Accurate coding of benign lipomatous neoplasms is crucial for proper patient management and resource allocation in healthcare settings.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Lack of specificity in documentation
  • Variability in clinical presentation
  • Potential for misclassification with malignant neoplasms
  • Need for clear differentiation from other types of neoplasms

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of neoplasm characteristics
  • Failure to specify location or type
  • Misuse of unspecified codes
  • Inconsistent follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed description of the lesion, including size, location, and any symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of subcutaneous lipomas during routine skin examinations.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of benign nature to avoid misclassification.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing excision and histopathological findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical removal of symptomatic lipomas.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for surgery and any findings that may suggest atypical features.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D17.9 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, D17
  • 9 should be used when the specific type of benign lipomatous neoplasm is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the documentation supports the use of this unspecified code and that no other more specific code applies

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D17.9 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11400CPT Code

Excision, benign skin lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when a lipoma is excised for symptomatic relief.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the excision and pathology results.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure the procedure is linked to the diagnosis of a benign lipomatous neoplasm.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign lipomatous neoplasms, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better clinical management.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign lipomatous neoplasms, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better clinical management.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign lipomatous neoplasms, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better clinical management.

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 is the significance of using the unspecified code D17.9?

Using D17.9 indicates that the specific type of benign lipomatous neoplasm is not documented. It is essential to ensure that this code is used appropriately to avoid potential audit issues and ensure accurate patient management.