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v1.0.0
ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD17.3

D17.3

Billable

Benign lipomatous neoplasm of skin and subcutaneous tissue of other and unspecified sites

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D17.3 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of benign lipomatous neoplasm of skin and subcutaneous tissue of other and unspecified sites.

Key Diagnostic Point:

D17.3 refers to benign lipomatous neoplasms, which are non-cancerous tumors composed primarily of adipose (fat) tissue. These neoplasms can occur in various locations on the body, including the skin and subcutaneous tissue, but the specific site may not be clearly defined. Clinically, these tumors are often asymptomatic and may present as soft, movable masses under the skin. While they are generally benign and do not exhibit malignant potential, they can occasionally cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns, leading to surgical removal. Surveillance for these neoplasms is typically minimal unless there are changes in size, shape, or symptoms, which may warrant further evaluation to rule out malignancy. Accurate coding requires careful documentation of the tumor's characteristics and location, as well as any associated symptoms or interventions.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Medium

Medium Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • Variability in presentation and location of lipomatous neoplasms
  • Need for precise documentation of the site of the neoplasm
  • Differentiation from other types of neoplasms or skin lesions
  • Potential for misclassification if not properly documented

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the tumor's characteristics
  • Failure to specify the site of the neoplasm
  • Coding based on incomplete clinical information
  • Misinterpretation of benign versus malignant lesions

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 trunk or extremities.

Billing Considerations

Ensure that the documentation specifies the benign nature of the neoplasm and any treatment provided.

Surgery

Documentation Requirements

Operative reports detailing the excision of the lipomatous neoplasm, including size and location.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Surgical removal of a symptomatic lipoma causing discomfort.

Billing Considerations

Document the rationale for surgery, including any symptoms or cosmetic concerns.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D17.3 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 coding guidelines, D17
  • 3 should be used when a benign lipomatous neoplasm is identified in unspecified sites
  • Coders must ensure that the documentation supports the diagnosis and that the neoplasm is confirmed as benign

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D17.3 When
No specific exclusions found.

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11400CPT Code

Excision, benign lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when a lipoma is excised surgically.

Documentation Requirements

Operative report detailing the excision and characteristics of the lesion.

Specialty Considerations

Ensure that the excision is documented as benign and the site is specified.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign lipomatous neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of benign lipomatous neoplasms, improving the accuracy of data collection and reimbursement processes.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

reimbursement processes.

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 difference between a lipoma and a malignant tumor?

A lipoma is a benign tumor made of fat tissue, typically soft and movable, while a malignant tumor is cancerous and can invade surrounding tissues and metastasize.