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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD17.21

D17.21

Billable

Benign lipomatous neoplasm of skin and subcutaneous tissue of right arm

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D17.21 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of benign lipomatous neoplasm of skin and subcutaneous tissue of right arm.

Key Diagnostic Point:

A benign lipomatous neoplasm, commonly referred to as a lipoma, is a soft tissue tumor composed of adipose (fat) tissue. These neoplasms are typically slow-growing, painless, and can occur in various locations, including the skin and subcutaneous tissue. When located on the right arm, they may present as a palpable mass that is mobile and soft to the touch. Lipomas are generally asymptomatic and do not exhibit malignant potential; however, they can cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns depending on their size and location. Diagnosis is often made through physical examination, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI may be utilized to assess the tumor's characteristics and rule out other conditions. Treatment is usually not required unless the lipoma becomes symptomatic or the patient requests removal for cosmetic reasons. Surgical excision is the most common approach for removal, and recurrence is rare. Regular surveillance is not typically necessary unless there are changes in the lipoma's characteristics, which may warrant further evaluation.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Specificity of the location (right arm)
  • Clear distinction between benign and malignant neoplasms
  • Commonly understood terminology among healthcare providers
  • Low likelihood of complications or additional coding requirements

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the tumor's characteristics
  • Failure to specify the location accurately
  • Misclassification as malignant due to lack of clarity in documentation
  • Inconsistent coding practices among providers

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed description of the lesion, including size, location, and any symptoms.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Evaluation of a patient presenting with a lipoma on the arm during a routine skin check.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the benign nature of the neoplasm is clearly documented to avoid misclassification.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the excision procedure, including size and histological confirmation of benignity.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical removal of a symptomatic lipoma from the right arm.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for surgery, especially if the lipoma is asymptomatic.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D17.21 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, D17
  • 21 should be used when documenting benign lipomatous neoplasms specifically located in the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the right arm
  • It is important to ensure that the neoplasm is confirmed as benign through clinical evaluation or histological examination

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D17.21 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11400CPT Code

Excision, benign lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when excising a lipoma from the right arm.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the excision and confirmation of benignity.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure the excision is documented as for a benign lesion.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D17.21 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes. D17.21 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes. D17.21 provides specificity that was not available in ICD-9.

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

What is the significance of coding D17.21 accurately?

Accurate coding of D17.21 ensures proper reimbursement for procedures related to benign lipomas and helps maintain accurate patient records for future reference.