2025 ICD-10-CM code C44.31
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) affecting unspecified or other parts of the face.
Medical necessity is established by the presence of BCC confirmed through biopsy, as it can locally invade surrounding tissues.Treatment is necessary to prevent spread and potential disfigurement.
Clinicians diagnose BCC based on lesion appearance, patient history, and biopsy. Treatment involves surgical excision, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or photodynamic therapy, tailored to the disease severity.Follow-up is crucial due to recurrence risk.
- Chapter 2: Neoplasms (C00-D49)
- Malignant neoplasms (C00-C96)Malignant neoplasms, stated or presumed to be primary (of specified sites), and certain specified histologies, except neuroendocrine, and of lymphoid, hematopoietic and related tissue (C00-C75)Melanoma and other malignant neoplasms of skin (C43-C44)
In simple words: This code indicates a type of skin cancer called basal cell carcinoma on the face, in a location not specifically identified.It’s the most common and least risky skin cancer, often appearing as sores, patches, or bumps.
This code represents basal cell carcinoma (BCC) involving parts of the face not otherwise specified, encompassing various presentations like open sores, reddish patches, or shiny bumps.It's crucial to distinguish this from BCC of specific facial areas (coded separately) and other skin malignancies like melanoma or Merkel cell carcinoma.
Example 1: A patient presents with a persistent non-healing sore on the cheek, diagnosed as BCC through biopsy, and treated with surgical excision., A patient with a history of sun exposure has a pearly nodule on the temple, confirmed as BCC, and treated with cryotherapy., A patient develops a reddish, irritated patch near the ear, diagnosed as BCC through biopsy, and undergoes Mohs surgery for removal.
Documentation should include lesion location and characteristics, diagnostic methods (e.g., biopsy), treatment details, and follow-up plans. Photographs can be helpful for tracking changes. Histopathology reports confirming BCC are essential.
** BCC is primarily caused by sun exposure.Genetic predisposition and exposure to certain chemicals may also be risk factors.
- Payment Status: Active
- Specialties:Dermatology, Oncology, Plastic Surgery, Family Medicine
- Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center