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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD23.21

D23.21

Billable

Other benign neoplasm of skin of right ear and external auricular canal

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D23.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other benign neoplasm of skin of right ear and external auricular canal.

Key Diagnostic Point:

D23.21 refers to benign neoplasms of the skin located specifically on the right ear and external auricular canal. These neoplasms can include a variety of skin growths such as seborrheic keratosis, dermatofibromas, or other benign tumors that do not exhibit malignant characteristics. Clinically, these lesions may present as asymptomatic growths, changes in skin texture, or color variations. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough clinical examination, and in some cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the benign nature of the lesion. Management often includes monitoring for changes, and surgical excision may be considered if the neoplasm becomes symptomatic or for cosmetic reasons. Follow-up care is essential to ensure no recurrence or development of new lesions, particularly in patients with a history of skin neoplasms. Regular skin examinations are recommended for early detection of any changes that may warrant further investigation.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of location (right ear and external auricular canal)
  • Differentiation from malignant neoplasms
  • Need for accurate documentation of clinical findings
  • Potential for multiple benign lesions requiring coding

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the lesion's characteristics
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the neoplasm
  • Misclassification as malignant due to lack of clarity
  • Inconsistent follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, including size, color, and texture, as well as any symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of a patient presenting with a new skin growth on the right ear, or follow-up of previously diagnosed benign lesions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that any excised lesions are sent for pathology to confirm benign nature and document findings.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive notes on the patient's history, examination findings, and any interventions performed.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of skin lesions affecting the external ear canal, including potential surgical interventions.

Billing Considerations

Consideration of the impact of lesions on hearing or ear canal function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D23.21 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, D23
  • 21 should be used when the neoplasm is confirmed as benign and located specifically on the right ear and external auricular canal
  • It is important to document the clinical findings and any treatments provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D23.21 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11400CPT Code

Excision, benign lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when a benign neoplasm on the right ear is surgically excised.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure, size of the lesion, and pathology results.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and otolaryngology may have specific protocols for excision.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D23.21 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9, enhancing clinical documentation and coding practices.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D23.21 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9, enhancing clinical documentation and coding practices.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. D23.21 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9, enhancing clinical documentation and coding practices.

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 D23.21 and malignant skin codes?

D23.21 is specifically for benign neoplasms, while malignant skin codes (e.g., C44.619) are used for cancerous lesions. Accurate documentation is crucial to ensure the correct code is applied.