2025 ICD-10-CM code D03.5

Melanoma in situ of the trunk, a non-invasive form of skin cancer limited to the top layer of skin (epidermis).

Use D03.5 for melanoma in situ specifically located on the trunk. Do not use this code if the melanoma has spread beyond the epidermis.Refer to the appropriate ICD-10-CM codes for invasive melanoma if deep invasion is confirmed.

Medical necessity for treatment of D03.5 stems from the potential for progression to invasive melanoma. Early intervention through appropriate treatment prevents local invasion, spread to regional lymph nodes or distant sites, and reduces the risk of morbidity and mortality.

Physicians, particularly dermatologists and oncologists, are responsible for diagnosing and managing melanoma in situ. Diagnosis involves visual inspection, dermoscopy, and biopsy for histopathological confirmation. Treatment decisions consider factors like lesion size, location, patient's overall health, and preferences, often involving surgical excision, Mohs surgery, or topical therapies. Regular follow-up is crucial to monitor for recurrence or progression.

In simple words: This is a very early form of skin cancer on your torso where the abnormal cells are only on the surface of your skin and haven't spread deeper or to other parts of your body.

Melanoma in situ of the trunk represents an early stage of melanoma where abnormal melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) proliferate within the epidermis without invading deeper skin layers or other body parts. It is also known as stage 0 melanoma.It's crucial to differentiate this from invasive melanoma, which has the potential to spread and become life-threatening.

Example 1: A 50-year-old individual presents with a changing mole on their back. Biopsy reveals melanoma in situ, leading to complete surgical excision., A 35-year-old patient with multiple atypical nevi (moles) on their chest undergoes dermoscopy, identifying one as melanoma in situ, treated with Mohs micrographic surgery for precise removal., During a routine skin check, a dermatologist identifies a suspicious lesion on a 60-year-old patient's upper back. Biopsy confirms melanoma in situ, and the patient chooses topical imiquimod cream as treatment due to personal factors.

Complete documentation for D03.5 should include details of the lesion's appearance (size, color, borders), location on the trunk, diagnostic methods (dermoscopy, biopsy), histopathological report confirming in situ melanoma, chosen treatment modality, and follow-up plan.

  • Specialties:Dermatology, Oncology, Pathology, General Practice/Family Medicine, Plastic Surgery
  • Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
** Only Enterprise users with EHR integration can access case-specific answers. Click here to request access.