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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD03.121

D03.121

Billable

Melanoma in situ of left upper eyelid, including canthus

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D03.121 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of melanoma in situ of left upper eyelid, including canthus.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Melanoma in situ of the left upper eyelid, including the canthus, is a localized form of skin cancer characterized by the uncontrolled growth of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. This condition is classified as 'in situ' because the cancerous cells are confined to the epidermis and have not invaded deeper tissues. The left upper eyelid, being a delicate area, requires careful monitoring and management due to its proximity to the eye and potential impact on vision and aesthetics. Patients with melanoma in situ typically present with a pigmented lesion that may appear irregular in shape and color. Early detection is crucial, as the risk of progression to invasive melanoma increases if left untreated. Surveillance protocols often include regular dermatological examinations and patient education on self-monitoring for changes in the lesion. The prognosis for melanoma in situ is generally favorable with appropriate treatment, which may involve surgical excision, but ongoing surveillance is essential to mitigate the risk of recurrence or progression.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of the anatomical location (left upper eyelid, including canthus)
  • Need for precise documentation of lesion characteristics
  • Differentiation from other skin lesions (e.g., basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma)
  • Potential for progression to invasive melanoma if not accurately coded and treated

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of lesion characteristics
  • Failure to document the location accurately
  • Misclassification of the lesion type
  • Lack of follow-up documentation post-treatment

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the lesion, including size, color, and border irregularities, as well as photographic evidence when possible.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Diagnosis and management of pigmented lesions, follow-up after excision, and patient education on skin self-examination.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that all findings are documented in the patient's medical record to support the diagnosis and treatment plan.

Ophthalmology

Documentation Requirements

Documentation of any impact on vision or ocular health, including visual acuity tests and assessments of eyelid function.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Management of eyelid lesions affecting vision, coordination with dermatology for surgical interventions.

Billing Considerations

Consider the functional implications of eyelid lesions and document any surgical interventions performed.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D03.121 When
  • Follow the official ICD
  • CM coding guidelines, ensuring that the code accurately reflects the diagnosis and that all documentation supports the coding decision
  • Include any relevant history of skin cancer and treatment

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D03.121 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11600CPT Code

Excision, malignant skin lesion, face, ears, eyelids; excised diameter over 4.0 cm

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a melanoma in situ from the left upper eyelid.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size of the lesion, location, and any complications during the procedure.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure coordination between dermatology and ophthalmology for optimal patient care.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of melanoma in situ, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and research outcomes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of melanoma in situ, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and research outcomes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of melanoma in situ, improving the accuracy of data collection and treatment tracking. This specificity aids in better patient management and research outcomes.

Resources

Clinical References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    National Cancer Institute

Coding & Billing References

  • •
    American Academy of Dermatology
  • •
    National Cancer Institute

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between melanoma in situ and invasive melanoma?

Melanoma in situ is confined to the epidermis and has not invaded deeper tissues, while invasive melanoma has penetrated beyond the epidermis into the dermis or deeper layers.

How often should patients with melanoma in situ be monitored?

Patients should undergo regular dermatological examinations, typically every 3 to 6 months, depending on individual risk factors and history.