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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.39

C44.39

Billable

Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of other and unspecified parts of face

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.39 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of other and unspecified parts of face.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C44.39 refers to malignant neoplasms of the skin located on the face that do not fall into the more commonly classified categories such as basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma. These neoplasms can arise from various skin cells and may present as atypical lesions that require careful evaluation. Risk factors include prolonged sun exposure, which can lead to DNA damage in skin cells, increasing the likelihood of malignant transformation. Surgical margins are critical in the treatment of these neoplasms, as incomplete excision can lead to recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary post-excision, especially in cosmetically sensitive areas of the face, to restore function and appearance. Accurate coding is essential for appropriate treatment planning and reimbursement, and it requires thorough documentation of the lesion's characteristics, treatment approach, and any complications that arise during management.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in lesion presentation and histology
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins
  • Potential for reconstruction procedures post-excision
  • Differentiation from other skin malignancies

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of lesion characteristics
  • Failure to document surgical margins
  • Lack of clarity on the type of reconstruction performed
  • Misclassification of the neoplasm type

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of atypical skin lesions, Mohs micrographic surgery, and post-surgical reconstruction.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of margins and any complications during surgery.

Plastic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive records of reconstructive procedures, including pre-operative assessments and post-operative outcomes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Reconstruction following excision of malignant skin neoplasms, particularly in facial areas.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for reconstruction techniques used and any complications.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.39 When
  • Follow official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the neoplasm is confirmed as malignant and located on the face
  • specified skin conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.39 When
  • Exclude codes for benign lesions or non

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Mohs micrographic surgery, first stage

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a malignant neoplasm of the skin on the face.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size and location of the lesion, surgical margins, and any complications.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists should ensure accurate coding of the procedure based on the complexity of the excision.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.39 provides a distinct code for atypical malignant neoplasms that may have been previously misclassified.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin malignancies, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.39 provides a distinct code for atypical malignant neoplasms that may have been previously misclassified.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.39 provides a distinct code for atypical malignant neoplasms that may have been previously misclassified.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lesions are coded under C44.39?

C44.39 is used for malignant neoplasms of the skin on the face that do not fit into more specific categories, such as basal cell or squamous cell carcinoma. This includes atypical lesions that require careful evaluation.

How do I document surgical margins for C44.39?

Document the exact measurements of the surgical margins taken during excision, as well as any additional treatments or reconstructions performed to ensure comprehensive coding.