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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.521

C44.521

Billable

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of breast

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.521 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of skin of breast.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin of the breast is a malignant neoplasm that arises from the squamous cells in the epidermis. This type of skin cancer is often associated with prolonged sun exposure, which can lead to DNA damage in skin cells. SCC can present as a persistent sore, a scaly patch, or a wart-like growth that may bleed or crust over. The breast area, while less commonly affected than other regions like the face or neck, can still develop SCC, particularly in individuals with a history of significant sun exposure or those with compromised immune systems. Treatment typically involves surgical excision, and it is crucial to ensure clear surgical margins to minimize the risk of recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary depending on the extent of the excision, and this can involve various techniques, including skin grafts or flap surgery. Regular follow-up is essential to monitor for any signs of recurrence or new skin cancers, especially in patients with a history of skin malignancies.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Differentiation from other skin cancers such as basal cell carcinoma or melanoma.
  • Need for precise documentation of surgical margins.
  • Variability in treatment approaches and reconstruction techniques.
  • Potential for recurrence requiring ongoing monitoring.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins.
  • Failure to document the extent of sun exposure.
  • Misclassification of the type of skin cancer.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation for recurrence monitoring.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

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

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and treatment of SCC, follow-up for recurrence, and management of skin lesions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure accurate documentation of the lesion's characteristics and treatment outcomes.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, including surgical and reconstructive options.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced SCC, coordination of care for reconstruction, and monitoring for metastasis.

Billing Considerations

Documenting the multidisciplinary approach to treatment and follow-up care.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.521 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, C44
  • 521 should be used when the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma is confirmed and specifically located on the breast
  • It is important to document the histological type and any relevant treatment details
  • malignant skin conditions

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.521 When
  • Exclusions include non

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11600CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion, face, ears, eyelids, scalp

Clinical Scenario

Used for excision of SCC on the breast.

Documentation Requirements

Document size, location, and margins of excised lesion.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology and surgical oncology must coordinate on excision and 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 the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. C44.521 provides specificity that aids in tracking treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

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. C44.521 provides specificity that aids in tracking treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.521 provides specificity that aids in tracking treatment outcomes and resource allocation.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of documenting surgical margins?

Documenting surgical margins is crucial to ensure that the cancer has been completely excised, reducing the risk of recurrence and guiding further treatment if necessary.