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 CodesD22.5

D22.5

Billable

Melanocytic nevi of trunk

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D22.5 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of melanocytic nevi of trunk.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Melanocytic nevi, commonly known as moles, are benign tumors of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. Melanocytic nevi can appear anywhere on the body, but when specifically located on the trunk, they are classified under the ICD-10 code D22.5. These nevi can vary in size, shape, and color, and while they are generally harmless, they can sometimes change in appearance, which may warrant further evaluation. The trunk includes the chest, abdomen, and back, making it a common site for these nevi. Management typically involves monitoring for changes, and in some cases, surgical excision may be recommended if there are concerns about malignancy or cosmetic reasons. Follow-up care is essential to ensure that any changes in the nevi are documented and assessed appropriately. Regular skin examinations are advised, especially for individuals with multiple nevi or a family history of skin cancer.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Clear definition of the condition
  • Specific location of nevi (trunk)
  • Low likelihood of complications
  • Standard management protocols

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of changes in nevi
  • Failure to note family history of skin cancer
  • Lack of follow-up notes on monitoring
  • Misclassification of nevi as malignant

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the nevi, including size, shape, color, and any changes over time.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine skin checks, excision of suspicious nevi, and management of multiple nevi.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that any changes in nevi are documented, as this can impact coding and management decisions.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history, including family history of skin conditions and any previous skin cancer.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Annual skin exams, referrals to dermatology for suspicious lesions.

Billing Considerations

Documenting patient education on self-examination and sun protection.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D22.5 When
  • According to the official coding guidelines, D22
  • 5 should be used when documenting melanocytic nevi located specifically on the trunk
  • It is important to differentiate between benign nevi and malignant lesions, as this will affect coding and management

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D22.5 When
  • Exclusions include any nevi that are symptomatic or show signs of malignancy

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11400CPT Code

Excision, benign lesion including margins

Clinical Scenario

Used when a nevus is excised for biopsy or cosmetic reasons.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion and the margins excised.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists should ensure that the excision is well-documented to support the procedure.

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 melanocytic nevi, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D22.5 provides a clear distinction for nevi located on the trunk, which was less specific in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like melanocytic nevi, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D22.5 provides a clear distinction for nevi located on the trunk, which was less specific in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. D22.5 provides a clear distinction for nevi located on the trunk, which was less specific in ICD-9.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between D22.5 and D23.5?

D22.5 specifically refers to melanocytic nevi of the trunk, which are benign. D23.5 refers to other benign neoplasms of the skin of the trunk, which may include different types of lesions that are not melanocytic nevi.