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ICD-10 Guide
ICD-10 CodesD22.70

D22.70

Billable

Melanocytic nevi of unspecified lower limb, including hip

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

Code Description

ICD-10 D22.70 is a billable code used to indicate a diagnosis of melanocytic nevi of unspecified lower limb, including hip.

Key Diagnostic Point:

Melanocytic nevi, commonly known as moles, are benign tumors of melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin in the skin. The code D22.70 specifically refers to melanocytic nevi located on the lower limb, including the hip, where the exact location is unspecified. These nevi can vary in size, shape, and color, and while they are generally harmless, they can sometimes change in appearance, which may warrant further evaluation. The management of melanocytic nevi typically involves monitoring for any changes that could indicate malignancy, such as asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter increase, or evolution over time. In cases where a nevus exhibits concerning features, dermatological evaluation and potential excision may be necessary. Follow-up care is essential to ensure that any changes are promptly addressed, and patients are often advised to perform regular self-examinations and report any changes to their healthcare provider.

Code Complexity Analysis

Complexity Rating: Low

Low Complexity

Complexity Factors

  • The benign nature of the condition simplifies coding.
  • Lack of specificity in the location reduces complexity.
  • Standard documentation practices are usually sufficient.
  • No extensive diagnostic criteria are required.

Audit Risk Factors

  • Inadequate documentation of the nevus characteristics.
  • Failure to note changes in the nevus over time.
  • Misclassification of nevi as malignant.
  • Lack of follow-up documentation.

Specialty Focus

Medical Specialties

Dermatology

Documentation Requirements

Detailed descriptions of the nevus, including size, color, and any changes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Routine skin examinations, monitoring of existing nevi, and evaluation of new lesions.

Billing Considerations

Ensure clear documentation of any changes in nevi to support coding and potential excision.

Primary Care

Documentation Requirements

Basic descriptions of nevi and any patient-reported changes.

Common Clinical Scenarios

Annual skin checks and referrals to dermatology for suspicious lesions.

Billing Considerations

Document patient education on self-examination and follow-up recommendations.

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Criteria

Use D22.70 When
  • According to ICD
  • 10 guidelines, D22
  • 70 should be used when the nevus is benign and there is no indication of malignancy
  • It is important to document the characteristics of the nevus and any changes over time

Exclusion Criteria

Do NOT use D22.70 When
  • Exclusions include malignant neoplasms and other skin conditions

Related ICD-10 Codes

Related CPT Codes

11400CPT Code

Excision, benign lesion

Clinical Scenario

Used when a nevus is excised for further evaluation.

Documentation Requirements

Document the size and location of the excised lesion.

Specialty Considerations

Dermatology should ensure clear documentation of the reason for excision.

ICD-10 Impact

Diagnostic & Documentation Impact

Enhanced Specificity

ICD-10 Improvements

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like melanocytic nevi, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better tracking of benign skin lesions.

ICD-9 vs ICD-10

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like melanocytic nevi, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better tracking of benign skin lesions.

Reimbursement & Billing Impact

The transition to ICD-10 has allowed for more specific coding of conditions like melanocytic nevi, improving the accuracy of patient records and facilitating better tracking of benign skin lesions.

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 D22.70 and D22.71?

D22.70 is used for melanocytic nevi of unspecified lower limb, while D22.71 specifies nevi located on the right lower limb.