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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.529

C44.529

Billable

Squamous cell carcinoma of skin of other part of trunk

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.529 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma of skin of other part 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. This specific code, C44.529, refers to SCC located in areas of the trunk that are not otherwise specified, excluding the face, ears, scalp, and neck. SCC is often associated with prolonged sun exposure, which can lead to DNA damage in skin cells. Risk factors include fair skin, a history of sunburns, and immunosuppression. Clinically, SCC may present as a persistent sore, a scaly patch, or a growth that may bleed or crust. Surgical excision is the primary treatment, and it is crucial to ensure clear surgical margins to minimize the risk of recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary depending on the size and location of the excised lesion. 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

  • Differentiating between various types of skin cancers
  • Determining the exact location of the carcinoma
  • Understanding the implications of surgical margins
  • Reconstruction procedures post-excision

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of surgical margins
  • Failure to specify the exact location of the carcinoma
  • Lack of follow-up documentation
  • Inconsistent coding of related procedures

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, including size, location, and histopathological 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 and follow-up care documentation.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced SCC and coordination of care with dermatology.

Billing Considerations

Document any systemic therapies or adjunct treatments.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.529 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, C44
  • 529 should be used when the specific site of the squamous cell carcinoma is not otherwise specified
  • Coders must ensure that the diagnosis is confirmed by pathology and that the documentation supports the diagnosis and treatment provided

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.529 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11600CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a squamous cell carcinoma from the trunk.

Documentation Requirements

Document size, location, and margins of the excised lesion.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists should ensure clear documentation of the procedure and any reconstruction 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. C44.529 provides a clear distinction for squamous cell carcinoma located in unspecified areas of the trunk.

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. C44.529 provides a clear distinction for squamous cell carcinoma located in unspecified areas of the trunk.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. C44.529 provides a clear distinction for squamous cell carcinoma located in unspecified areas of the trunk.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of clear surgical margins in SCC treatment?

Clear surgical margins indicate that the cancer has been completely removed, reducing the risk of recurrence. It is crucial for the pathologist to assess margins during the excision to ensure complete removal.