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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.52

C44.52

Billable

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of trunk

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.52 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of skin of trunk.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is a malignant tumor that arises from the squamous cells, which are flat cells located in the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). This type of skin cancer is commonly associated with prolonged sun exposure, particularly in areas of the body that are frequently exposed to UV radiation, such as the trunk. SCC can present as a firm, red nodule, a flat sore with a scaly crust, or a new growth on the skin. It is important to note that while SCC is less aggressive than melanoma, it can metastasize if left untreated. Surgical excision is the primary treatment, and achieving clear surgical margins is crucial to prevent recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary depending on the size and location of the excised lesion. Regular follow-up is essential for monitoring potential recurrence or new skin cancers, especially in patients with a history of sun exposure or previous skin cancers.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and histological grading of SCC
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions such as basal cell carcinoma
  • Potential for metastasis requiring additional staging codes

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to document the size and location of the tumor
  • Misclassification of the type of skin cancer
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-surgery

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 SCC, including Mohs micrographic surgery.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of margins and any reconstruction performed.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, including chemotherapy or radiation if indicated.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced SCC or recurrent cases.

Billing Considerations

Document staging and any metastasis for accurate coding.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.52 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines for neoplasms, ensuring accurate documentation of the site, type, and behavior of the tumor
  • Include any relevant staging information and treatment details

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.52 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 SCC on the trunk.

Documentation Requirements

Document size of lesion and margins.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology must ensure accurate coding based on lesion size.

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. C44.52 provides a clear distinction for SCC of the trunk, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment tracking.

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. C44.52 provides a clear distinction for SCC of the trunk, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment tracking.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.52 provides a clear distinction for SCC of the trunk, enhancing clinical understanding and treatment tracking.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common treatments for C44.52?

Common treatments include surgical excision, Mohs micrographic surgery, and in some cases, radiation therapy or topical chemotherapy for superficial lesions.