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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.299

C44.299

Billable

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

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.299 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of left ear and external auricular canal.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C44.299 refers to a malignant neoplasm of the skin located specifically on the left ear and external auricular canal. 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. Skin cancers in this area can arise due to prolonged sun exposure, which is a significant risk factor, particularly in individuals with fair skin or those who have had previous skin cancers. 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 area, which can involve techniques such as skin grafting or flap surgery. Accurate coding is essential for proper treatment documentation and reimbursement, as well as for tracking cancer incidence and outcomes.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in histological types of skin cancer
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins
  • Potential for reconstruction procedures post-excision
  • Differentiation from benign skin lesions

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of tumor type and margins
  • Failure to document reconstruction procedures
  • Misclassification of benign versus malignant lesions
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery

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.

Otolaryngology

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing excision and reconstruction, as well as pathology findings.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of skin cancers affecting the ear and surrounding structures.

Billing Considerations

Document any functional impairments or cosmetic concerns post-surgery.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.299 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring accurate documentation of the site, type of malignancy, and any associated procedures
  • Include details about the surgical margins and any reconstruction performed

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.299 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11600CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion, face, ears, scalp

Clinical Scenario

Used for excision of malignant neoplasm on the left ear.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing excision and margins.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and Otolaryngology should document the extent of excision and any reconstruction.

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 tracking of 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 facilitating better tracking of 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 facilitating better tracking of cancer incidence and treatment outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    National Cancer Institute

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    National Cancer Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of skin cancers are included under C44.299?

C44.299 includes various malignant neoplasms of the skin on the left ear and external auricular canal, such as basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and other specified types that do not fall under more specific codes.