2025 ICD-10-CM code D17.3

Benign lipomatous neoplasm (lipoma) of skin and subcutaneous tissue in unspecified or other locations.

Use this code when the lipoma is located in a site not specifically indexed in the D17 subcategory or when the provider does not specify the location. Do not use this code for lipomas of the head, face, neck, trunk, or limbs, as more specific codes exist (D17.0-D17.2).

Medical necessity for treatment depends on the individual case.Pain, interference with function, or suspicion of malignancy would justify removal. Cosmetic concerns can also be a factor but may not be covered by insurance.

Diagnosis is typically clinical, based on physical exam and patient history.Further investigation, such as a D-dimer test, may be used to differentiate it from cancerous tumors.Treatment depends on factors such as size, location, and symptoms, and can range from observation to surgical removal or liposuction.

In simple words: This code represents a non-cancerous fatty lump under the skin in a place not covered by other, more specific codes, or when the doctor hasn't specified the exact location.

A benign lipomatous neoplasm, commonly known as a lipoma, is a noncancerous growth of fat cells located in the subcutaneous tissue beneath the skin.This code specifies lipomas found in locations other than the head, face, neck, trunk, or limbs, or when the specific site is not documented.

Example 1: A patient presents with a soft, movable lump on the back of their hand. After examination, the physician diagnoses it as a lipoma and documents it as being located at D17.3., A lipoma is found incidentally on a patient's buttock during a routine physical exam. As the buttock is not specifically indexed for lipomas, D17.3 is used., A patient has multiple lipomas. Some are located on the trunk (D17.1) and one is located on the foot, which is not an indexed location, therefore D17.3 would be used to code the foot lipoma.

Documentation should include the location of the lipoma, its size and characteristics (soft, mobile, etc.), and any associated symptoms. If any diagnostic tests are performed (like a D-dimer test to rule out liposarcoma), those results should also be documented. The reason for any procedures, such as excision or liposuction, should also be noted.

  • Specialties:General surgery, dermatology, plastic surgery, family medicine
  • Place of Service:Office, Outpatient Hospital, Ambulatory Surgical Center
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