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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.131

C44.131

Billable

Sebaceous cell carcinoma of skin of unspecified eyelid, including canthus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.131 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of sebaceous cell carcinoma of skin of unspecified eyelid, including canthus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Sebaceous cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that arises from sebaceous glands, which are responsible for producing oil that lubricates the skin and hair. This type of carcinoma can occur on the eyelids, including the canthus, which is the corner of the eye where the upper and lower eyelids meet. The condition is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of abnormal sebaceous cells, often presenting as a nodular lesion that may be mistaken for a benign growth. Risk factors include prolonged sun exposure, which can damage the skin and increase the likelihood of malignant transformations. Surgical excision is the primary treatment, and it is crucial to achieve clear surgical margins to prevent recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary post-excision, especially in cosmetically sensitive areas like the eyelids. The prognosis depends on the size, depth, and location of the tumor, as well as the adequacy of surgical margins.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiating between benign and malignant lesions
  • Determining the exact location of the carcinoma (eyelid vs. canthus)
  • Understanding the surgical margins required for excision
  • Reconstruction coding post-surgery

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the tumor's location and size
  • Failure to document surgical margins achieved during excision
  • Misclassification of the tumor type
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, including size, location, and histopathological findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, including excision and reconstruction.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of margins and any additional procedures performed.

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of visual acuity, eyelid function, and any ocular involvement.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of eyelid tumors and reconstruction post-excision.

Billing Considerations

Focus on the impact of the tumor on ocular health and function.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.131 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the diagnosis, including the specific site and type of carcinoma
  • Include any relevant surgical procedures and follow
  • up care

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.131 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11600CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion, face, ears, eyelids

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a sebaceous carcinoma from the eyelid.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion and the margins achieved.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure coordination between dermatology and ophthalmology for eyelid lesions.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.131 provides a clear distinction for sebaceous cell carcinoma, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.131 provides a clear distinction for sebaceous cell carcinoma, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.131 provides a clear distinction for sebaceous cell carcinoma, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment planning.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is sebaceous cell carcinoma?

Sebaceous cell carcinoma is a rare skin cancer that originates from sebaceous glands, often presenting as a nodular lesion on the skin, particularly in areas with high sun exposure.