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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD22.60

D22.60

Billable

Melanocytic nevi of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D22.60 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of melanocytic nevi of unspecified upper limb, including shoulder.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Melanocytic nevi, commonly known as moles, are benign tumors of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin in the skin. The code D22.60 specifically refers to melanocytic nevi located on the upper limb, including the shoulder, where the specific site is not further specified. These nevi can vary in size, color, and shape, and while they are generally benign, they can sometimes change in appearance, which may warrant further evaluation. Management typically involves monitoring for changes, and if any suspicious characteristics arise, a biopsy may be performed to rule out malignancy. Patients are often advised on sun protection and regular skin checks to monitor for any new or changing lesions. Follow-up care may include periodic dermatological evaluations, especially for individuals with multiple nevi or a family history of skin cancer. Overall, while melanocytic nevi are common and usually harmless, awareness of their characteristics and changes is crucial for early detection of potential skin cancers.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Lack of specificity in location (unspecified upper limb)
  • Commonality of the condition (high prevalence of benign nevi)
  • Standard management protocols (monitoring and biopsy if necessary)
  • Low risk of misdiagnosis due to benign nature

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the lesion's characteristics
  • Failure to document follow-up care or monitoring
  • Misclassification of nevi as malignant without biopsy
  • Inconsistent coding of related conditions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine skin checks, evaluation of changing moles, and management of multiple nevi.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of any suspicious changes and follow-up plans.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive patient history and physical examination findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Annual skin exams, patient concerns about new or changing moles.

Billing Considerations

Document patient education on skin self-exams and sun protection.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D22.60 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, D22
  • 60 should be used when the specific location of the melanocytic nevus is not documented
  • Coders should ensure that the diagnosis is confirmed by a healthcare provider and that any relevant clinical findings are documented

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D22.60 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11100CPT Code

Biopsy of skin, excisional

Clinical Scenario

Used when a suspicious nevus is excised for further evaluation.

Documentation Requirements

Document the reason for biopsy and characteristics of the nevus.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists should ensure thorough 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 skin lesions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management. D22.60 provides a clear code for benign nevi, aiding in tracking and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin lesions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management. D22.60 provides a clear code for benign nevi, aiding in tracking and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin lesions, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management. D22.60 provides a clear code for benign nevi, aiding in tracking and research.

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 difference between D22.60 and D22.61?

D22.60 is used for melanocytic nevi of unspecified upper limb, while D22.61 specifies nevi located on the right upper limb. The choice of code depends on the documentation of the specific location.