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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.292

C44.292

Billable

Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of right ear and external auricular canal

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.292 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of right ear and external auricular canal.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C44.292 refers to a malignant neoplasm of the skin located specifically on the right ear and external auricular canal. This code encompasses various types of skin cancers that are not classified elsewhere, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other rare skin malignancies. The right ear and external auricular canal are particularly susceptible to skin cancers due to their exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Chronic sun exposure can lead to DNA damage in skin cells, resulting in malignant transformations. Surgical intervention often involves excision of the tumor with clear margins to ensure complete removal and minimize recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary depending on the size and location of the excised lesion, which can involve local flaps or grafts to restore the ear's appearance and function. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement, as well as for tracking the incidence of skin cancers in specific anatomical locations.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variety of skin cancer types that can be coded under this category
  • Need for precise documentation of tumor type and location
  • Variability in surgical techniques and reconstruction methods
  • Potential for multiple procedures to be performed in one visit

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to specify the type of malignant neoplasm
  • Incorrect coding of the anatomical site
  • Lack of clarity in the surgical procedure performed

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 accurate documentation of tumor size, type, and margins to support coding.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing excision and reconstruction procedures.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of skin cancers affecting the ear and surrounding structures.

Billing Considerations

Document any reconstructive techniques used to restore ear anatomy.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.292 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the malignant neoplasm is confirmed
  • Include documentation of the specific type of skin cancer and the anatomical site
  • specified malignant neoplasms

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.292 When
  • Exclude benign lesions and non

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Mohs micrographic surgery

Clinical Scenario

Used for excision of skin cancer on the right ear.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the procedure and margins.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and surgical oncology must ensure accurate coding for Mohs procedures.

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 enhancing the ability to track cancer incidence and treatment outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track cancer incidence and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, improving data accuracy and enhancing the ability to track cancer incidence and treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of skin cancers are included under C44.292?

C44.292 includes various types of malignant neoplasms such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other specified skin cancers affecting the right ear and external auricular canal.