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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesC44.80

C44.80

Billable

Unspecified malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of skin

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

Code Description

ICD-10 C44.80 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of unspecified malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of skin.

Key Diagnostic Point:

C44.80 refers to an unspecified malignant neoplasm of overlapping sites of skin, which indicates a cancerous growth that cannot be precisely categorized into a specific site on the skin. This code is often used when the exact location of the malignancy is unclear or when multiple sites are involved. Skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, can arise from various factors, including prolonged sun exposure, which damages the skin's DNA and leads to abnormal cell growth. Surgical margins are critical in the treatment of skin cancers; ensuring that the cancerous tissue is completely excised is vital to prevent recurrence. Reconstruction may be necessary after surgical removal, especially in cases where large areas of skin are affected. Proper documentation of the malignancy's characteristics, treatment plans, and follow-up care is essential for accurate coding and reimbursement.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in documentation of overlapping sites
  • Need for precise surgical margin descriptions
  • Differentiation from benign skin lesions
  • Potential for multiple skin cancers in a single patient

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of site specifics
  • Failure to document surgical margins
  • Lack of clarity on treatment plans
  • Inconsistent follow-up documentation

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the tumor's location, size, and characteristics, as well as surgical margins and reconstruction details.

Common Clinical Scenarios

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

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of overlapping sites and any prior treatments to avoid confusion.

Oncology

Documentation Requirements

Comprehensive treatment plans, including chemotherapy or radiation therapy details, and follow-up care.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of advanced skin cancers requiring multidisciplinary approaches.

Billing Considerations

Document all aspects of care, including referrals and consultations with other specialties.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use C44.80 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, C44
  • 80 should be used when the specific site of the malignant neoplasm cannot be determined
  • Coders should ensure that all documentation supports the use of this code and that it is not used when a more specific code is available

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use C44.80 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

17311CPT Code

Mohs micrographic surgery

Clinical Scenario

Used for excising skin cancers with complex margins.

Documentation Requirements

Detailed operative notes and pathology reports.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatologists must document the extent of the neoplasm and margins.

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, but C44.80 remains a necessary code for cases where the malignancy's site is ambiguous. Coders must be diligent in ensuring that documentation supports its use to avoid denials.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, but C44.80 remains a necessary code for cases where the malignancy's site is ambiguous. Coders must be diligent in ensuring that documentation supports its use to avoid denials.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of skin cancers, but C44.80 remains a necessary code for cases where the malignancy's site is ambiguous. Coders must be diligent in ensuring that documentation supports its use to avoid denials.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I use C44.80 instead of a more specific code?

C44.80 should be used when the specific site of the malignant neoplasm cannot be determined or when multiple overlapping sites are involved, and no other specific code applies.