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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.1991

C44.1991

Billable

Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of left upper eyelid, including canthus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.1991 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of left upper eyelid, including canthus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C44.1991 refers to a malignant neoplasm of the skin located specifically on the left upper eyelid, including the canthus. This code encompasses various types of skin cancers that may not fit into more specific categories, such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. The eyelid is a delicate area, and malignancies here can arise due to factors such as chronic sun exposure, which is a significant risk factor for skin cancers. Surgical intervention often involves excision of the tumor with careful attention to margins to ensure complete removal and minimize recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary post-excision to restore the eyelid's function and appearance, which can involve complex techniques depending on the size and location of the tumor. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment planning and reimbursement, as well as for tracking the incidence of skin cancers in this sensitive area.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in tumor types and histology
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins
  • Potential for reconstruction procedures
  • Differentiation from benign lesions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor type
  • Failure to document surgical margins
  • Lack of clarity on reconstruction procedures
  • Misclassification of benign vs malignant lesions

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed pathology reports, surgical notes, and follow-up care documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, including Mohs micrographic surgery.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of margins and any reconstruction performed.

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive eye examination findings, surgical details, and visual function assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of eyelid tumors and their impact on vision and eyelid function.

Billing Considerations

Document any functional impairments resulting from the neoplasm or its treatment.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.1991 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the malignancy type, location, and any associated procedures
  • Include details on surgical margins and reconstruction when applicable

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.1991 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Mohs micrographic surgery, first stage

Clinical Scenario

Used for excision of malignant neoplasm on the eyelid.

Documentation Requirements

Document the extent of the excision and any reconstruction performed.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and ophthalmology must coordinate on the surgical approach.

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 data accuracy and facilitating better patient management and research.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management and research.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving data accuracy and facilitating better patient management and research.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    American Academy of Ophthalmology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    American Academy of Ophthalmology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of documenting surgical margins?

Documenting surgical margins is crucial to ensure complete excision of the malignancy and to prevent recurrence. It also supports the coding process by providing necessary details for accurate billing and treatment planning.