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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.399

C44.399

Billable

Other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of other parts of face

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.399 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of other specified malignant neoplasm of skin of other parts of face.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C44.399 refers to malignant neoplasms of the skin located on parts of the face that are not specifically classified under other codes. This includes various types of skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma, that may arise from sun exposure or other risk factors. The face is a common site for skin cancers due to its exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can lead to DNA damage in skin cells. Surgical excision is often the primary treatment, and it is crucial to ensure clear surgical margins to prevent recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary depending on the size and location of the excised lesion, requiring careful planning to restore both function and aesthetics. 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

  • Variety of skin cancer types that can fall under this code
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins
  • Potential for reconstruction procedures post-excision
  • Differentiation from other skin cancer codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the type of malignancy
  • Failure to document surgical margins
  • Lack of clarity on reconstruction procedures
  • Misclassification of the site of the neoplasm

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, biopsy results, and treatment plans.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate coding of the specific type of skin cancer and any associated procedures.

Plastic Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Records of reconstructive procedures, including pre-operative and post-operative assessments.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Reconstruction following excision of skin cancers on the face.

Billing Considerations

Document the extent of tissue loss and the techniques used for reconstruction.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.399 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code is used only when the malignancy is confirmed and documented
  • Include details about the specific type of skin cancer and the treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.399 When
  • Exclude conditions that are not malignant neoplasms of the skin

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion, face, ears, scalp

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a malignant neoplasm from the face.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion and margins.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists and plastic surgeons should ensure accurate coding based on the procedure performed.

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. C44.399 provides a more detailed classification than previous ICD-9 codes, facilitating better tracking of skin 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 the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.399 provides a more detailed classification than previous ICD-9 codes, facilitating better tracking of skin cancer incidence and treatment outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.399 provides a more detailed classification than previous ICD-9 codes, facilitating better tracking of skin 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 C44.399?

C44.399 includes various malignant neoplasms of the skin on the face that are not specifically classified elsewhere, such as certain squamous cell carcinomas and basal cell carcinomas.